Food safety standards in the Canterbury district have reached a significant milestone, with 90.5 per cent of all rated food businesses now boasting the top four-and five-star hygiene scores. Data released by the Canterbury City Council, based on the Food Standards Agency (FSA) ratings, reveals that out of 1,475 businesses whose scores are published, a staggering 1,335 have achieved the highest standards.
The ratings, which are the result of meticulous food hygiene inspections carried out by the council’s Environmental Health Officers (EHOs), show the current breakdown as of December 1, 2025:
| FSA Rating | Number of Businesses |
| 5-Star | 1,153 |
| 4-Star | 182 |
| 3-Star | 113 |
| 2-Star | 22 |
| 1-Star | 3 |
| 0-Star | 2 |
The success is attributed in part to the FSA’s Food Hygiene Ratings Scheme, which was launched 15 years ago and is credited with driving substantial improvements across the UK food industry.
Councillor Connie Nolan, Cabinet member for environmental health, hailed the figures as a “real success story.”
“Obviously it is great that so many businesses are getting the top two ratings – 90.5 per cent. We commend all those businesses for their commitment to keeping their customers safe,” said Cllr Nolan.
While the vast majority of local businesses are excelling, the Council has reiterated its commitment to supporting those that have not yet met the top standards.
“For those who do not score well at our inspection, our priority is to work with them to bring about improvements,” Cllr Nolan explained. “Our officers will provide advice and support… with the ultimate aim of reinspecting and awarding a much-improved rating.”
With the busy Christmas party season now underway, the council assures residents and visitors that they can dine out with confidence.
“Thanks to this scheme and the hygiene inspections carried out by our officers, it’s highly likely you’ll be enjoying your celebrations at a safe, clean and hygienic local food business,” Cllr Nolan added.
People can verify the hygiene rating of any local food establishment by checking the food hygiene ratings on the FSA website.