North East food hygiene on the up

The towns and cities across the North East that score highest and lowest for their food hygiene ratings have been revealed, thanks to a report from online training provider High Speed Training.

The report, which analysed Food Standards Agency (FSA) data for over 215,000 food businesses across England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, found that in the region, the average food hygiene rating across all food establishments was 4.62 from over 9,500 premises, which places the region joint 3rd in the national rankings. A similar report run in 2023 by High Speed Training calculated the North East score at 4.59, showing that food hygiene standards have improved across the region in recent years.

The top spot in the North East went to Stockton-on-Tees, with an impressive average score of 4.86 from almost 300 premises, placing them joint third in the national rankings for towns and cities. 

Hartlepool, who held the top spot in 2023, lost 0.02 from their average rating, falling to joint second in the region with a score of 4.83, tied with Darlington.

The biggest improver in the region was Sunderland, who increased their rating by 0.15 from 2023, though their average score of 4.49 places them second bottom in the region. 

The lowest average rating in the region went to South Shields, with an average score of 4.41,, though their rating did increase by 0.07 from 2023.

Newcastle edged a close fought Tyne-Wear derby over Sunderland, with overall average ratings of 4.51 vs 4.49, respectively, ranking 6th and 7th respectively in the region. No town or city in the region registered a greater fall in ratings than Newcastle, losing 0.07 from 2023.

High Speed Training’s report also found that almost than 1 in 5 takeaways (19%) across the region scored 3 or below for their food hygiene rating, whilst 90% of all businesses scored a 4 or a 5.

The report also found that 15 premises across the region scored a zero, and 85 scored a one on their food hygiene rating.

The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS) is a partnership with local authorities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The scheme aims to provide customers with information as to how well a business is upholding food hygiene and safety standards.

Following regular inspections, ratings are devised based on the standard of food handling hygiene, the physical condition of the premises and facilities and food safety management practices.

These ratings are then made available on the Food Standards Agency (FSA) website and are usually visible from outside of the premises, often presented in a window near the entrance. 

In Wales and Northern Ireland, it is compulsory for businesses to display their food hygiene rating. However, in England it is currently just considered best practice.

Dr Richard Anderson, Head of Learning and Development at High Speed Training comments: “Food safety and robust hygiene practices should be of paramount importance to food businesses. Recently, we have seen many high profile cases of food poisoning and illnesses caused by food-borne bacteria.

“This is why food hygiene ratings are so important – they are a direct reflection of how safely and hygienically that establishment operates and are of critical importance to consumers.

“For businesses that perform well, a high rating is a real selling point. However, establishments with a low hygiene rating can be extremely off-putting for customers, which ultimately have a significant impact on reputation and profitability.”

“Our report shows that, on average, standards remain high across the UK, and have improved from 2023. This commitment to correct food hygiene training for staff, alongside robust food management procedures and everyday good practices are crucial to keep performing at high standards.

“We would also urge customers to check the food hygiene ratings of establishments they wish to dine at, so that an informed call as to whether you eat there can be made.”

To view the report in full, and to see how your area compares to others, please click here