A chicken takeaway shop has been given the second lowest possible rating after an unannounced inspection.

Food standards agency inspectors have given Grill Co, High Street, Aylesbury, an overall hygiene rating of 1, indicating that major improvements are necessary.

This inspection took place on December 20, 2023.

The detailed breakdown highlighted several major concerns.

The hygienic handling of food, including aspects such as preparation, cooking, re-heating, cooling, and storage, was found to be in need of some improvement.

Furthermore, the cleanliness and condition of the facilities and the building were also identified as areas requiring improvements.

The areas under scrutiny included the appropriate layout, ventilation, hand washing facilities, and pest control measures.

Most concerning was the food safety officer's confidence in the establishment.

The officer deemed it necessary for Grill Co to make major improvements in the checks in place to ensure that food sold or served is safe to eat and that staff are knowledgeable about food safety.

Grill Co now sits in the small minority of local establishments with such low hygiene ratings, with only 0.7% of establishments in the area receiving a rating of 1.

The majority of local businesses (69.0%) uphold excellent standards, achieving a top rating of 5.

Food hygiene ratings play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of consumers in the United Kingdom.

They serve as vital information points, helping individuals make informed decisions about where to dine.

By adhering to high standards of hygiene, restaurants, cafes, and canteens can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and promote public health.

This system relies on rigorous, unannounced inspections conducted by local authorities which evaluate food handling, cleanliness and management practices.

With a current rating of 1, Grill Co will need to carry out significant improvements to its hygiene practices in order to reassure customers and regain their trust.