Food Poisoning Risk Rises as Food Hygiene Checks LagFood Poisoning Risk Rises as Food Hygiene Checks Lag A BBC investigation has revealed a disturbing trend: consumers are facing an increased risk of food poisoning due to delays in food hygiene checks. Harlow’s Situation In Harlow, one in five restaurants and takeaways have not been inspected for over two years. The backlog is particularly concerning as the recruitment crisis and pandemic-induced backlog continue to hamper environmental health teams. Public Health Concerns Unison, the public services union, has described the situation as a “serious public health problem.” Inspections are now so delayed that businesses with poor hygiene practices can operate with little fear of detection. E. Coli Outbreak Highlights Safety Concerns The BBC’s findings coincide with growing concerns about food safety following an E. coli outbreak in June linked to contaminated produce. Hospitality UK, representing the food and drink industry, acknowledges that despite challenges, customer safety remains paramount. Delayed Inspections Hamper Safety However, delays in inspections compromise this safety. According to the BBC, one-quarter of food businesses fail to meet hygiene standards, with a significant proportion rated as “unsatisfactory.” Public Informed The BBC’s investigation highlights the need for transparency and awareness about food safety. Consumers should be informed of inspection delays and take precautions to avoid contaminated food. Need for Urgent Action Addressing the backlog of inspections is crucial to safeguard public health. Authorities must prioritize recruitment and resources to ensure timely inspections and mitigate the risk of food poisoning.
A BBC investigation has found that consumers are at greater risk of food poisoning due to delays in food hygiene checks.
Analysis shows that one in five restaurants and takeaways have not been seen by food inspectors for more than two years.
In Harlow the figures are as follows:
Total inspected: 277
Total inspected before 2022: 35
Total inspected after 2022: 242
A recent inspection was at the Garden of India in Bush Fair. Mo and the team were very pleased with the 5* rating.
Environmental health teams say the recruitment crisis and backlog caused by the pandemic are driving the trend.
The public services union Unison said it was a “serious public health problem”.
A spokesman said: “Inspections are now so delayed that it is perfectly possible for food businesses with poor hygiene practices to operate with little fear of ever being caught.”
The BBC’s findings come amid growing concerns about food safety following an E. coli outbreak in June linked to contaminated produce.
Hospitality UK, the organisation representing the food and drink industry, reported that three-quarters of eateries achieved the highest hygiene score in their latest inspection.
“Despite the pressures the industry has faced in recent years, the safety of our customers remains non-negotiable,” a spokesperson said.
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https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1rr1qqqny0o
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