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Food Hygiene Hub

Food hygiene rules across the UK

England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland share the same basic duties, but regulators, rating schemes and some temperature rules differ.

England

Food Standards Agency (FSA) with local authorities

In England, the Food Standards Agency sets food safety policy and guidance. Local authorities enforce food law, through Environmental Health Officers and Food Safety Officers.

Scotland

Food Standards Scotland (FSS) with local authorities

Scotland has its own food regulator, Food Standards Scotland, which is separate from the FSA. It also has a different inspection results scheme and some different temperature rules.

Wales

Food Standards Agency in Wales with local authorities

Wales was the first UK nation to make displaying food hygiene ratings a legal requirement. The Food Standards Agency in Wales sets policy, and local authorities enforce food law.

Northern Ireland

Food Standards Agency in Northern Ireland with district councils

In Northern Ireland, the Food Standards Agency sets policy and district councils carry out inspections and enforcement. Some EU food law applies directly under the Windsor Framework.