Hygiene inspectors have given The Whitehart Restaurant and Winebar the second lowest rating possible after an unannounced inspection.

The inspection, which took place on August 9, 2023, resulted in the outlet receiving an overall hygiene rating of 1, indicating that major improvement is necessary.

Located at 44 Erith High Street in Erith, Kent, The Whitehart Restaurant And Winebar was found to have satisfactory hygienic handling of food, including preparation, cooking, re-heating, cooling, and storage.

However, the cleanliness and condition of the facilities and building, including appropriate layout, ventilation, hand washing facilities, and pest control, were in need of some improvement.

Additionally, the food safety officer's confidence in the establishment, regarding the checks in place to ensure the safety of food served and staff knowledge about food safety, was found to need major improvement.

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What did the FSA say about The Whitehart Restaurant And Winebar?

The Whitehart Restaurant And Winebar falls within the minority of establishments with a rating of 1.

Food hygiene ratings play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and quality of food establishments in the United Kingdom.

These ratings are determined through rigorous inspections conducted by local authorities.

Trained food safety officers visit establishments unannounced, evaluating various aspects of hygiene standards.

Consumers rely on these ratings to make informed choices when dining out, selecting establishments that prioritize high standards of hygiene.

A higher rating indicates that the establishment has demonstrated excellent practices in areas such as food preparation, storage, and cleanliness, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and promoting public health.

What does each hygiene rating mean?

0 - Urgent improvement is necessary

1 - Major improvement necessary

2 - Some improvement is necessary

3 - Hygiene standards are generally satisfactory

4 - Hygiene standards are good

5 - Hygiene standards are very good

Why are food hygiene ratings used?

Food hygiene ratings play a vital role in ensuring the safety and quality of food establishments in the United Kingdom.

These ratings, displayed in windows and available online, provide consumers with essential information about hygiene standards.

Inspections carried out by trained food safety officers evaluate various aspects such as food handling, cleanliness, and management practices.

Ratings range from 0 to 5, with higher ratings indicating excellent practices in food preparation, storage, and cleanliness, which contribute to reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and promoting public health.