Renfrewshire has been named one of the best-performing areas in Scotland for food hygiene standards, according to a new analysis of inspection data released this week.
The report, published by leading UK training provider High Speed Training, examined Food Standards Agency information for more than 240,000 food businesses across the UK as the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme marks its 15th anniversary.
Scotland uses a different assessment method from the rest of the UK, with premises receiving either a “Pass” or “Improvement Required” rating. High Speed Training reviewed the latest results for all 32 local authorities and found Renfrewshire placed fourth overall, with a strong pass rate of 97.61% across 628 inspected premises.
The area ranked ahead of many other central belt councils, including East Renfrewshire, which placed tenth with a 95% pass rate, and Glasgow, which ranked 27th with 88.47%. South Ayrshire topped the national table at 99%, while Highland was the lowest-ranked area at 77.88%.
The study highlights continuing high standards across much of Scotland and encourages residents planning festive meals or Christmas nights out to check the hygiene ratings of restaurants, takeaways and food venues before booking.
High Speed Training, which has certified more than three million learners since 2008, says the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme plays a vital role in helping customers make informed choices and encouraging businesses to maintain strong hygiene practices.
The report forms part of the organisation’s wider look at how the scheme has shaped food safety across the UK over the past 15 years.
Dr Richard Anderson, Head of Learning and Development at High Speed Training, comments: “Food safety and robust hygiene practices should be of paramount importance to food businesses, and to the customers who use them. 15 years have passed since the launch of the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, and its place in the industry is as vital as ever.
“These ratings are a direct reflection of how safely and hygienically that establishment operates, and we urge businesses and customers to take them seriously.
“For businesses that perform well, a high rating is a real selling point. However, establishments with a low hygiene rating can be extremely off-putting for customers, which ultimately has a significant impact on reputation and profitability.”
He added: “Our report shows that, on average, standards remain high across the UK, and have improved from 2024. This commitment to correct food hygiene training for staff, alongside robust food management procedures and everyday good practices are crucial to keep performing at high standards.
“We would also urge customers to check the food hygiene ratings of establishments they wish to dine at, so that an informed call as to whether you eat there can be made.”
More information about the report can be found here: https://www.highspeedtraining.co.uk/hub/food-hygiene-ratings-report.
Headline photo credit: High Speed Training