A FOOD hygiene rating scheme which allows consumers in Mole Valley to see how well local eateries and retailers are adhering to safety laws will soon mark two years since its introduction.
The 'Scores On The Doors' scheme was rolled out across the district in September 2011 and means that all businesses offering food for sale are regularly inspected by Food Safety Officers from Mole Valley District Council.
Each business is then given a rating on a scale from zero to five, with a score of zero indicating urgent attention needed and five representing excellent standards.
When inspecting premises the visiting officers consider how hygienically food is being handled, prepared, cooked and stored, as well as the general condition and cleanliness of a premises and how well a business is recording its efforts to make sure food is safe to eat.
Ratings are available to view on the 'Scores On The Doors' website and businesses can also display their score using stickers issued to them along with their certificate of inspection.
Mole Valley currently has 414 premises taking part in the scheme and of those 89 per cent have been rated 3 or above.
All businesses have the right to request a re-visit and an upgrade, however over the course of the scheme so far only nine premises have been served notices ordering them to improve their practices.
Speaking about the benefits of the scheme, Councillor James Friend, portfolio holder for the environment, said: "The Scores on the Doors Food Hygiene scheme allows us to help residents to access the value of restaurant and other food preparation that they are looking for in a clear way as well as protecting the character of Mole Valley's towns and villages by helping our local businesses to advertise the standard they have achieved."