FSA Consultation Letter, 20 May 2008

HYGIENE - FSA consultation on UK-wide 'scores on the doors' scheme on hygiene standards in food businesses

The Food Standards Agency is seeking your views on proposals for establishing a UK-wide ‘scores on the doors' (SOTD) scheme to provide consumers with information about hygiene standards in food businesses. Responses are requested by: 15 August 2008

Consultation details

The scheme will be supported by a centrally funded branding and marketing exercise and by a national promotional campaign to raise awareness of consumers and food businesses. Assessment of hygiene standards is undertaken by our local authority partners, and we are also seeking views on a support package to assist them in implementing and operating the UK-wide scheme.

Comments are sought on:

• the essential features of a UK-wide scheme, and on two different options for the scoring element of the scheme – a 'three-star, plus fail' (four-tier) system and a 'pass/improvement required' (two-tier) system (based on one currently being piloted in Scotland) – details are given at the link below
• other options for the scoring element of the scheme, based on your experience of existing scoring systems, such as the various five-star systems that are being operated
• the essential elements of the necessary support package for local authorities operating the scheme
• the draft Impact Assessment for the UK-wide scheme

A copy of the consultation documents is available on this site - see: 'Scores on the Doors' Consultation