A Southampton food store has received the second lowest hygiene rating following an inspection. 

Salam Foods, located at 137-138 St Mary Street, was given an overall rating of 1, meaning major improvement is necessary, following an inspection on July 5, 2023. 

The inspection assessed various aspects of the establishment's hygiene practices, including the handling of food, cleanliness of facilities, and staff knowledge of food safety. 

How did Salam Foods score?

When it came to the specific scores, Salam Foods fared relatively well in terms of the hygienic handling of food. 

It was found to be generally satisfactory in aspects such as food preparation, cooking, re-heating, cooling, and storage.

However, greater attention needed to be paid to the cleanliness and condition of the facilities and building. 

Factors such as appropriate layout, ventilation, hand washing facilities, and pest control, were found to be in need of some improvement. 

Alongside this, the food safety officer’s confidence in the establishment was judged to be in need of major improvement.

This measure takes into account the checks in place to ensure the safety of the food being sold or served, as well as the level of knowledge among staff members regarding food safety practices.

What are hygiene ratings in the Southampton area like overall?

An analysis of hygiene ratings in the Southampton area reveals a varied landscape.

Only 0.1 per cent of establishments have the lowest rating of 0, while 0.9 per cent have a rating of 1, placing Salam Foods in the minority.

Meanwhile, 0.3 per cent of establishments had a rating of 2, 4.7 per cent had a 3 and 10.3 per cent had a 4.

Most places, comprising 60.9 per cent, achieved the highest rating of 5.

A small proportion (0.4 per cent) were exempt from the rating system, and 22.4 per cent were awaiting inspection.

What does each hygiene rating mean?

0 - Urgent improvement is necessary

1 - Major improvement necessary

2 - Some improvement is necessary

3 - Hygiene standards are generally satisfactory

4 - Hygiene standards are good

5 - Hygiene standards are very good

Why are food hygiene ratings used?

Food hygiene ratings serve as a crucial tool in the UK to ensure the safety and quality of food establishments. 

They provide consumers with essential information about the hygiene standards of restaurants, cafes, and canteens, allowing them to make informed decisions when dining out. 

These ratings are determined through rigorous inspections conducted by trained food safety officers, who assess various aspects such as food handling, cleanliness, and management practices. 

Ratings range from 0, indicating an urgent need for improvement, to 5, representing excellent practices. 

A higher rating indicates that an establishment has demonstrated strong hygiene practices, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and promoting public health.