How to obtain and display your food hygiene rating certificate

Once your food hygiene inspection is complete, your local council will award you a Food Hygiene Rating from 0 (Urgent Improvement Necessary) to 5 (Very Good). You will receive a certificate and a sticker showing this rating. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, you are legally required to display this sticker in a prominent place where customers can easily see it before they enter your premises.

Where to display your rating

The best place for your sticker is on your front door or in a front-facing window. The goal is for customers to see it before they decide to come inside. Other good spots include near your menu display case or at the till.

A good score is a fantastic marketing tool that builds instant trust with new customers, so make sure it’s clearly visible.

Rules across the UK

The rules for displaying your rating vary slightly depending on your location:

• England & Northern Ireland: Displaying the sticker is mandatory.
• Wales: Displaying the sticker is mandatory, and you must also provide your rating verbally if a customer asks.
• Scotland: Businesses are given a 'Pass' or 'Improvement Required' rating. Displaying the certificate is voluntary, but it is highly encouraged.

What if I get a low score?

If you're not happy with your rating, you have options. You can appeal the decision, submit a 'right to reply' to explain the circumstances on the Food Standards Agency website, or apply for a re-visit once you have made the required improvements. Contact your local council’s Environmental Health department to discuss the best path forward.