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Food businesses · Pubs, clubs and late-night venuesExplainer

Food hygiene inspections are unannounced. What officers look at.

Published 27 October 2026 · Drafted with AI, checked by an editor

Council officers visit without warning and give a rating from 0 to 5.

What changedCouncils inspect food businesses to check they handle food safely, and publish a food hygiene rating.Who it affectsRestaurants, takeaways, cafes, pubs serving food, caterers and food shops.What to doKeep your food safety records filled in every day, not just before a visit.Key datesOngoing.

Officers look at how hygienically food is handled, the condition of the premises, and how you manage food safety.

Councils usually visit unannounced so they see the business as it runs day to day. You can look up any business's current rating in our tracker.

Be ready for the knockUse the free checklist for food businesses.Open the checklist
Original source
Coventry City Council: food hygiene inspections
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