A popular takeaway in Buckinghamshire, called Curry Gardens, has recently received the lowest possible hygiene rating.

The Burnham establishment's overall hygiene rating of 0, meaning urgent improvement necessary, was given after an inspection on May 26, 2023.

During the inspection, several aspects of the restaurant's operations were found to be in need of improvement.

The hygienic handling of food, including preparation, cooking, re-heating, cooling, and storage, was flagged as requiring major improvement.

Additionally, the cleanliness and condition of the facilities and building, such as appropriate layout, ventilation, hand washing facilities, and pest control, needed some improvement.

The food safety officer also expressed a lack of confidence in the establishment's practices, including the checks in place to ensure the safety of food served and the knowledge of staff regarding food safety.

This rating places Curry Gardens at a considerably lower standard compared to other establishments in the area.

According to data on hygiene ratings in the area, only 0.1 per cent of establishments have a rating of 0, while the majority, 68.7 per cent, have the highest rating of 5.

Food hygiene ratings are crucial in maintaining the safety and quality of food establishments throughout the United Kingdom.

These ratings, provided by rigorous inspections conducted by local authorities, offer consumers essential information about the hygiene standards of restaurants, cafes, and canteens.

Trained food safety officers visit establishments unannounced, assessing various factors including food handling, cleanliness, and management practices.

By displaying these ratings prominently in windows and making them available online, consumers can make informed decisions when choosing where to dine.

The higher the rating, the higher the standards of hygiene the establishment has demonstrated, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and promoting public health.

For Curry Gardens, urgent improvement is necessary to ensure that the establishment meets the required levels of hygiene.

It is imperative for the management and staff to address the issues flagged during the inspection promptly.

This will not only restore consumer confidence in the establishment but also ensure the health and safety of their customers.