Refreshed Scores on Doors food safety rating system unveiled in Bega

Hodgkinson congratulated Bega Valley Shire Council for joining this important program.

NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson said: "Bega enjoys an international food reputation due to its dairy industry. This initiative serves as a wonderful marketing tool to promote the standard and quality of the hygiene and food safety of the region's local food businesses.

"As Bega gears up for a busy holiday season, local food businesses can display their score in-store so visitors and residents can confidently enjoy their meal."

Local member for Bega Andrew Constance said: "There are more than 250 food retail businesses in the region and there is a very high food safety compliance rate.

"Joining the Scores on Doors program represents a great opportunity for businesses to collectively promote that high level of compliance to locals and visitors alike," Constance said.

Hodgkinson said the same could be applied to any council that chooses to take part.

"Dining is a drawcard for many areas and being able to promote your region as a safe place to enjoy dining out can represent a tangible boost to your local economy," Hodgkinson said.

"Now is the time for councils to get on board and encourage food businesses in their area to be a part of the Scores on Doors program.

Scores on Doors is a star rating system based on the outcome of a routine, unannounced inspection of a food business.

The result is then displayed prominently in that business, usually on the front door or window, giving consumers transparent access to information and the ability to make an informed choice about the food they eat.

A business is assessed against a standardised food safety checklist and assigned a star rating; 5 stars is Excellent, 4 stars is Very Good and 3 stars is Good.

The refreshed Scores on Doors program will be rolled out in participating council areas throughout 2014.