Hygiene Ratings Suggested For U.K. Supermarkets
You would think it sounds obvious. Proudly show customers just how clean your store is by putting a sign on the door with approved ratings from an official inspector.
But Tesco, Sainsbury and Asda have all protested the ways and means that might be used to measure their food hygiene standards under a current proposal from the Britain's Food Standards Agency (FSA). And the inspectors who might inspect them. And the consistency, or otherwise, of the inspections. And the way that information would be presented so that customers aren't confused. And the frequency of inspections which might not take into account quick responses to suggestions for improvement. And, and, and...
The protests came after the FSA proposed that its Scores on the Doors hygiene ratings program - carried out by local authorities - be extended to supermarkets, according to a report in The Independent newspaper. The scheme, already used by a number of restaurant and sandwich chains, could lead to results being displayed on their windows and doors. Consumers can also find hygiene ratings on the scoresonthedoors.org.uk website.
On its own website, the FSA explains that "Scores on the Doors schemes are designed to provide consumers with information about standards of hygiene in food businesses and to empower them to make informed choices."
However, a Sainsbury's spokeswoman insisted that it supports "anything that improves food safety and leads to better and more accurate information being given to consumers." But it added, "We are concerned about the confusion surrounding this scheme and the inconsistency involved in marking."
Asda's spokeswoman said that they "would like one simple, clear system for all local authorities because what is being proposed is confusing." According to reports, Tesco had similar concerns.
Discussion Questions: Should supermarkets be forced to display hygiene ratings just like many restaurant and sandwich chains? Do you likewise see potential problems creating standards around hygiene ratings? What solution do you see for assuring the safety of food at supermarkets?