Last evening BBC London showed an extended version of the recent FHRS sticker fraud article a link to which can be found here.

As well as some shocking evidence as to the extent of sticker fraud, the programme is now questioning the fitness for purpose of the scheme – particularly in as the is still no compulsory requirement for food businesses in England to display their ratings.

The scheme was launched some 14 years ago and today 76% of businesses now achieve 5 (stars). Although it has been incredibly successful in improving compliance, much has changed in that time.  We believe it is time for a review, with an urgency to re-commence the (paused) process leading to legislation which will mandate compulsory display.

Not many consumers realise that even the current 5 stars rating includes 4 subsections, which can mean that – even at that level – there are still some minor non-compliances. Is time to re-examine the effectiveness and incentives to further improve for the 76%?