FSA highlights missed opportunity for businesses to display hygiene ratings online

This initiative follows new research revealing that despite the widespread use of social media and online ordering platforms, only a small fraction of businesses showcase their food hygiene ratings on these channels.

The research indicates that merely one in ten businesses display their food hygiene rating online, even though there is a general consensus that doing so attracts more customers. To support businesses, the FSA is providing online display guidance, free images, and other resources to help them feature their ratings on websites and social media.

Jesse Williams, Head of the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme at the FSA, emphasised the importance of this initiative. He noted that consumers prefer to see food hygiene ratings before placing orders online. Despite the UK’s high food hygiene standards, many businesses miss the chance to highlight their ratings online, which could demonstrate their commitment to food safety.

Williams stated, “A good hygiene rating is something that businesses work hard to achieve, so we want to make it simple for them to share it online. We have updated our guidance for social media display and offer free resources to help businesses add their rating to their websites. It’s good business sense to display a hygiene rating online and it’s reassuring for consumers that they can see the hygiene rating clearly when ordering their food.”

Surveys show only a minority display hygiene rating

The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS) Audit of Display and Business Survey, along with the technical report, revealed that Facebook is the most popular online platform among businesses, with 67% usage in England and Wales, and 69% in Northern Ireland. Instagram and websites with online ordering capabilities are also widely used, yet only a minority display their FHRS rating: 10% in England, 5% in Northern Ireland, and 8% in Wales.

The survey also found that around two-thirds of businesses believe displaying a food hygiene rating results in more customers, and there is widespread agreement that good ratings enhance business reputation and attract customers.

While it is not mandatory to display a hygiene rating online, the FSA strongly encourages businesses in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland to do so as part of their online presence.