More than three quarters of independent convenience stores are yet to receive a food hygiene rating, RN analysis has revealed. 

The rating, which is managed by the Food Standards Agency (FSA), notifies customers how reliable a business is when it comes to food hygiene. A score from 0 to 2 indicates the store has failed its inspection, while ratings from 3 to 5 are a pass.

RN research found 6,894 independent retailers out of 33,308 had an official assessment recorded. A further 186 were “awaiting inspection” – a term the FSA applies to a new business or a store under new management. Fifty-two out of 4,920 multiple-managed stores were also awaiting examination.

Former Spar compliance officer Anne-Marie Canham, who is now managing director of food safety training specialist Training Orbz, said: “Retailers should contact their council if they want an inspection. Potential customers research these ratings and store owners can lose potential business if they don’t have a rating.”

Any business which sells or handles food is required by law to register with the FSA.

Read similar: Part one of our food hygiene investigation: why are independents falling behind multiples?