A poll on 2,182 UK adults, conducted by YouGov for BSI after the Government’s Eat out To Help out scheme, found that over half (53%) of consumers say they have become more conscious of food safety and hygiene at food outlets since the pandemic began.
More than three quarters (76%) of those surveyed said a lack of confidence in an outlet’s hygiene would stop them eating there. More than half (51%) reported that a venue’s certification by a third-part provider would increase their trust.
Richard Werran, EMEA director for food and retail supply chain at BSI said: “We’re all incredibly keen to see restaurants, pubs and coffee shops open their doors again, but our survey highlights the growing concerns that customers have when it comes to food safety and hygiene.
“We know that most organizations are taking great care in their preparations and will do their utmost to ensure staff and customers are safe. We’d encourage all food service organizations to lean heavily on best practice guidance and instil a robust food safety culture.
“In line with BSI’s Hygienic certification programme, I’d advise undertaking a deep clean, not just in food preparation areas but also cleaning and servicing all appliances and dispensers, looking for any pest ingress.
“This will demonstrate a commitment to putting the health of colleagues and customers first, providing consumers with much needed reassurance.”