London’s Food Hygiene Ratings: A Mixed Bag Across Boroughs
In a recent report released by High Speed Training, London’s food hygiene ratings have been shown to be the worst food hygiene ratings in the UK. The analysis, based on data from the Food Standards Agency (FSA), encompassed over 215,000 food businesses across the UK, placing London at the bottom of regional rankings with an average score of 4.36 out of 5.
Kensington and Chelsea Shine Bright
Leading the pack in London, Kensington and Chelsea boast an impressive average rating of 4.80 from over 1,000 premises, placing them joint 7th in national rankings if considered a town. This borough stands as a beacon of excellence in food hygiene within the city.
Waltham Forest Struggles with Standards
On the opposite end, Waltham Forest holds the lowest average rating among London boroughs at 3.74, a position that would place it last nationally if boroughs were treated as separate towns. This marks a slight decline of 0.03 from 2023, highlighting an area in need of improvement.
Improvements and Declines Across Boroughs
Redbridge emerged as the most improved borough, increasing its rating by 0.14 to 4.38, climbing to 13th in the citywide rankings. Conversely, Hillingdon saw the most significant decline, with a 0.17 drop to 4.24, now ranking 17th in London.
A Broader View of the Capital
The report revealed that if London boroughs were considered individually, three would be at the bottom nationally: Barking and Dagenham (3.95), Ealing (3.92), and Waltham Forest (3.74). Despite these challenges, the number of rated premises in London rose from 34,961 in 2023 to 35,832 in 2024, indicating growth in the sector.
Takeaways and Restaurant Ratings
Alarmingly, almost 1 in 4 takeaways (23%) across London scored 3 or below for food hygiene, while 82% of premises achieved a 4 or 5. Notably, 186 establishments scored a zero, and 802 scored a one on their hygiene rating.
The Importance of Food Hygiene Ratings
Dr. Richard Anderson from High Speed Training emphasized the critical nature of food hygiene ratings, stating, “Food safety and robust hygiene practices should be of paramount importance.” He urged consumers to consider these ratings before dining, as they reflect the establishment’s commitment to safety and hygiene.
Local Government Response
Waltham Forest Councillor Khevyn Limbajee reassured residents of the council’s dedication to maintaining safety standards, citing a zero-tolerance approach to non-compliance and encouraging the use of the FSA website to check ratings.
The report underscores the importance of food hygiene ratings and their impact on consumer choices and business reputation. As London continues to navigate these challenges, it remains crucial for both businesses and consumers to prioritize safety and hygiene in the dining experience.