UK nations
Food hygiene training in England
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.
- Regulator
- Food Standards Agency (FSA) with local authorities
- Inspection results
- Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (0–5). Display is voluntary.
What is different in England
Ratings display
Displaying your food hygiene rating is not a legal requirement in England. The FSA encourages it, and recommends a place where customers can easily see it, such as a door or window.
Food safety system
Food businesses must have procedures based on HACCP, in proportion to their size and what they do. Many small caterers and retailers use the FSA's Safer Food, Better Business (SFBB) packs.
Registration
New food businesses must register with their local authority at least 28 days before trading. Registration is free.
Temperatures
The legal maximum for chilled food is 8°C, and you should aim for 5°C or below. Hot food must be held at 63°C or above. Reheat food until it is piping hot throughout.
Allergens
The FSA's 2025 best practice guidance recommends written allergen information plus a conversation for non-prepacked food. It does not change the law.
Main laws
The Food Safety Act 1990, the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 and the Food Information Regulations 2014.
Always check current guidance from the relevant regulator and your local authority.
Our certificates are private training certificates of completion, not regulated qualifications. UK law does not require one specific food hygiene certificate. It requires food handlers to be supervised and instructed or trained appropriately. Employers decide what training each role needs, and a certificate does not replace practical instruction or supervision.