Consumer information on hygiene inspections of food premises

The purpose of this investigation was to learn more about the public's perceptions of hygiene standards in eating places and their interest in the provision of more consumer information on the inspection of food premises. A telephone survey found that people who eat out regularly claimed that the standard of food hygiene of food premises was important to them when deciding where to dine. A minority had concerns/complaints about the hygiene standards of eating places they had used. Consumers believe that they have the right to know the results of a hygiene inspection. Most would welcome a reliable system to help them judge hygiene standards. Half of them thought that it was difficult to find information on the hygiene standards of eating places. If access to information was made easier, some consumers claimed they would eat out more often. Respondents preferred the use of ‘stars’ to inform them on hygiene standards. Although current public awareness of hygiene award schemes is low, respondents were in favour of them. Independent evaluation of existing award schemes and hygiene inspection report scores should be carried out before a national scheme is launched.