An Indian restaurant in Chesham has been hit with a one-out-of-five food hygiene rating.

Hygiene inspectors have given 'Papad' at Broad Street, Chesham, the second lowest rating possible after an unannounced inspection.

The overall hygiene rating was determined as one, declaring that major improvements are necessary.

The comprehensive inspection took place on the October, 13 2022, and the details were then publicly disclosed.

Papad's hygienic handling of food, encompassing preparation, cooking, reheating, cooling, and storage practices, was adjudged as generally satisfactory.

The cleanliness and condition of facilities, including layout, ventilation, handwashing facilities and pest control were also deemed generally satisfactory.

Despite these satisfactory aspects, the food safety officer expressed low confidence in the establishment, more specifically, in the checks they have in place to ensure the food sold or served is safe to eat and the staff's knowledge about food safety.

This factor contributed to the major improvement necessary rating that was given to the establishment.

In comparison to other establishments in the area, Papad falls in the 0.6 per cent of outlets that have a rating of 1.

In detail, 0.0 per cent of establishments have a rating of 0, 1.2 per cent have a rating of 2, 4.5 per cent have a rating of 3, 14.3 per cent have a rating of 4, and a significant majority, or 68.8 per cent, boast a top rating of 5.

Meanwhile, 3.4 per cent of establishments have been given an exempt status and 7.1 per cent are awaiting their inspection.

Food hygiene ratings play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and quality of food establishments in the United Kingdom.

Local authorities conduct rigorous, unannounced inspections to evaluate food establishments on aspects such as food handling, cleanliness, and management practices, assigning a rating from 0, which signifies urgent improvement, to 5, which suggests very good practices.

This enables consumers to make well-informed dining choices and promotes public health by reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.