These requirements are all set out in law, and the Food Standards Agency operates a rating scheme in partnership with local authorities that carry out inspections of premises.
The score sheet runs from zero – meaning ‘urgent improvement is required’ – to five, denoting a place where hygiene standards are ‘very good’.
Ratings are a snapshot of the standards of food hygiene found at the time of inspection. The criteria include handling of food; how food is stored and prepared; cleanliness of facilities and how food safety is managed.
Happily there are hundreds of businesses in Sheffield that have achieved full five-star ratings. Here are 10 of the best, based on the most recent data available from the FSA.
1. All-Siam
All-Siam Thai Restaurant on Ecclesall Road has a full five-star rating. Photo: Sarah Washbourn
2. WasabiSabi
WasabiSabi on London Road has a five-star rating - it specialises in noodles, sushi and teppanyaki Japanese cuisine. Photo: Google
3. The Grind
Kelham Island café The Grind - renowned for its handmade sausage rolls - has achieved top marks for food hygiene. Photo: Dean Atkins
4. IKEA Restaurant
Fans of Swedish meatballs can rest easily - the IKEA restaurant in Sheffield has a five-star rating. Photo: IKEA