A recent investigation conducted by the BBC has revealed that delays in food hygiene inspections are heightening the risk of food poisoning for consumers – with data indicating that 20% of establishments haven’t been inspected in over two years.
These findings follow growing food safety fears surrounding an E. coli outbreak in June this year, which was found to be linked to contaminated products.
“A serious public health issue”
The current outlook is troubling. According to environmental health teams, the backlog of inspections is primarily due to an industry-wide recruitment crisis, along with the lingering effects of the pandemic – which have led to reduced funding for council food safety measures.
Public services union, Unison, has declared the situation a “serious public health issue.” The lack of timely food hygiene inspections by local authorities means that establishments with poor practices can operate undetected for extended periods. And with foodborne diseases resulting in 16,400 hospitalisations and 180 deaths in the UK each year, the need for regular inspections is critical.
The true cost of foodborne diseases
While UK Hospitality reports that many eateries score highly on food hygiene inspections, it’s hard for businesses to keep up standards without regular checks. Moreover, if a business’ reputation is damaged due to food hygiene issues, it can lead to an erosion in consumer trust.
But public opinion isn’t the only thing at risk – the financial and operational damages associated with foodborne illness outbreaks are significant. The total cost of foodborne disease in the UK is a staggering £9.1 billion, with these estimates covering everything from the burden placed on individuals, to potential settlement sums demanded from the establishments at fault.
The gold standard in food safety assurance
Food safety is our bread and butter. It’s why we are the UK’s only certification body for the Safe to Trade scheme, the UK hospitality sector’s first voluntary, third-party assurance certification, designed to protect public health by driving the highest standards in food and health & safety.
Safe to Trade enhances the foundational Food Hygiene Rating Scheme – requiring regular comprehensive inspections which encompass allergen safety, labelling, and front-of–house cleanliness. By pursuing the Safe to Trade certification, your business effectively demonstrates a commitment to fostering safe, clean dining environments – operating robust due diligence and upholding excellent standards.
Don’t leave food safety to chance
In order to tackle these pressing challenges head on and maintain food hygiene standards in the process, you need to be proactive in your approach. Fortunately, you don’t have to go it alone.
Explore our website or reach out to our expert team for guidance and support – from voluntary third party audits, to digital safety management systems, to 60 training courses aimed at all levels – to help make your hospitality business, Safe to Trade.
Together, let’s raise the bar for food safety.
