Food Hygiene Information Scheme pilot research report

Tuesday 22 May 2007

An independent interim evaluation of the Food Hygiene Information Scheme shows that an overwhelming majority of those asked think it is fair that the public can check the food hygiene status of catering and retail outlets.

Key findings of the evaluation, commissioned by the Food Standards Agency Scotland, include:

• 98% of consumers and 89% of food businesses think it is fair that the public are able to check a retailer’s or caterer’s food hygiene status
• 89% of consumers think that the new scheme will help them make informed choices about retail and catering outlets in their area
• 89% of consumers and 86% of businesses think that the scheme will make businesses more likely to comply with food hygiene regulations

The report gives valuable information on how consumers are responding to the scheme. It also indicates an extremely encouraging response from food businesses.

The report also highlights areas needing development or those that work particularly well. For example, it highlights the need to raise more awareness of the scheme, particularly among consumers. Consequently, the Agency is currently working on a strategy to help the public find out more about the Food Hygiene Information Scheme.