Warning to festive party bookers

People planning a Christmas party are being urged to look before they book ahead of this year’s festivities.

Exeter City Council working in partnership with the Food Standards Agency, is urging people to check the restaurant, pub or cafe’s food hygiene ratings before making a booking.

“It’s the things you can’t see – like germs spread by bad hygiene practices - that people need to consider. There’s one easy way to set your mind at rest – check the food hygiene rating,” said Cllr Keith Owen, Lead Councillor for Environment, Health and Wellbeing.

“It’s really easy to check - just go to www.food.gov.uk/ratings or if you’re out and about check for the green and black sticker; if you can’t see one, just ask,” he added.

The ratings are determined by local authority food safety officers and run from 0-5, with a 5 rating meaning a very good level of food hygiene. 97% of Exeter’s food businesses are rated 3 or better, so there are plenty of places with good standards and people can easily avoid taking their family to those not meeting the grade. The basic rule is, if you don’t see a green and black sticker in the window or you spot a low rating online, you can make a better informed choice.

Catherine Brown, Chief Executive, Food Standards Agency, agrees: “This Christmas, do this one little thing for peace of mind when eating out. Take a moment to check the food hygiene rating, pick the right place, and enjoy a great meal out.”

“It’s easy for people in Exeter to check hygiene ratings online and choose a restaurant for their Christmas parties that takes food hygiene seriously, said Cllr Keith Owen, Lead Councillor for Environmental Health and Wellbeing. “This is an important time for local businesses - a good food hygiene rating is something to be proud of; it matters to customers so we are encouraging all businesses in Exeter to display their rating and have a prosperous Christmas season.”

For more information, visit www.food.gov.uk/business-industry/caterers/hygieneratings