Legal Information

Since the Freedom of Information Act 2000 came into force local authorities have noticed increasing numbers of requests for information on hygiene inspections of their local catering establishments, retailers and canteens.

It is not just local journalists looking for a story who are taking an interest. Concerned parents worried about school or nursery meals, businesses looking to market services to struggling caterers and even shoppers wanting to make sure they don't suffer one of the 1.3 million food poisoning incidents that strike the British public each year, are all requesting hygiene data.

This is also supported by the Environmental Information Regulations 2004, Article 3 of European Community Regulation no 882/2004 which both require the disclosure of information that is in the public interest.

Under the Food Safety act 1990, Environmental Health Officers are tasked with inspecting food businesses according to the Food Standards Agency Code of Practice.

More Information

• Background on Scores on the Doors
• Inspection Elements

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact the City Council Food Health and Safety Team on 01228 817336 or foodandsafety@carlisle.gov.uk