An undercover BBC investigation has revealed that businesses across London are misleading customers by displaying inaccurate food hygiene ratings.
The probe found that both small eateries and major retailers, including a Sainsbury’s outlet, were misrepresenting their Food Standards Agency (FSA) scores.
Using hidden cameras, BBC reporters visited dozens of establishments in East London, uncovering widespread deception. Some businesses displayed top ratings, while their actual FSA score was far lower. The investigation focused on Waltham Forest, which currently holds the highest percentage of poorly-rated food outlets in England and Wales.
At a Sainsbury’s Local in Leyton, a five-star hygiene rating was prominently shown, despite the store’s actual rating being zero. Serious issues, including pest control failures, were documented by the FSA, with evidence of mouse droppings and poor cleanliness throughout the store. Following the BBC’s findings, Sainsbury’s admitted the error and updated the store’s rating.
Other establishments, like Nadeem Halal Meat & Grocery and Pizza & BBQ Express, falsely claimed higher hygiene standards when challenged. Experts believe this could amount to fraud.
The investigation raises concerns over England’s voluntary system for displaying food hygiene ratings, unlike in Wales and Northern Ireland, where showing scores is mandatory. The Food Standards Agency has long called for stricter regulations in England, where businesses can choose whether to display ratings.
Food safety lawyer Jon Payne said such actions put public health at risk and could lead to severe illnesses from contaminated food.
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