Food hygiene ratings


We run the National Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS) with the Food Standards Agency (FSA). The scheme rates supermarkets, food shops and places where you eat.

Businesses are inspected and given a number rating between zero and five. The rating shows how well it follows hygiene laws. The rating will then be displayed on a FHRS sticker.

You can find a rating for a business in Maidstone on the FSA website.

How ratings are worked out

A Food Safety Officer will inspect a food outlet or shop and give it a rating. They will look at:

  • how hygienically the food is handled
  • the condition and cleanliness of the premises
  • how food safety is managed and documented

A rating of five is very good and a rating of zero means urgent improvements are needed. If the rating is under five, the officer will explain what improvements need to be made.

You can tell us if you are unhappy with your rating. You can use our form to:

  • appeal your rating
  • request another visit
  • reply to your rating

Change your rating

Report a premises

If you think a food premises is not following hygiene rules, call 01622 602460 or 01622 602450 to report it.

We will investigate your complaint and contact you within five working days. Some reports can take up to 30 days to investigate, but we will keep you updated.

Food poisoning

If you think you have food poisoning, contact your doctor. If a confirmed or suspected case of food poisoning is reported, they will contact us or the local authority of the premises.