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Food hygiene inspections

When inspections happen and what to expect. Hygiene emergency protection notices and appeals.

Contents

What happens during an inspection

Depending on the situation, inspectors may:

  • make test purchases
  • take samples and photographs
  • inspect and test any goods, equipment or installations
  • remove and keep any food, goods or documents
  • inspect all parts of the premises
  • need to make videos or take copies of records, including computer records or documents to do with the business
  • interview staff 

The inspectors may also make recommendations for improvement and discuss when the work must be completed by. They may revisit to check on your progress.

If the conditions found during the inspection are a risk to the public, inspecting officers may serve a hygiene emergency prohibition notice. This can put rules or limits on the business, processes or equipment.

In serious cases, you may be taken to court.