The FSA’s Food and You survey published once every two years provides information on reported behaviours, attitudes and knowledge relating to food issues. This year’s survey has now been published.
Food Hygiene Rating Scheme
The survey showed an increase in awareness of the FSA’s Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, and the Food Hygiene Information Scheme in Scotland. Ratings for food outlets can be found on the FSA website.
Recognition of the schemes was found to be highest in Northern Ireland at 88%. Lowest awareness was in Scotland at 70%. Recognition of the schemes across the UK had increased significantly with latest figures showing that 76% of respondents were aware of the scheme up from 55% in previous years.
Numbers with a food allergy
The survey also gives an insight into the number of people with a food allergy. In total, 4% reported having an allergy. Of that 4%, nearly two thirds (66%) said they had seen a doctor about their allergy with 40% saying that it had been clinically diagnosed. Overall, 11% of respondents reported living in a household in which someone had a food allergy (not necessarily clinically diagnosed).
The Food and You survey is used to collect information about reported behaviours, attitudes and knowledge relating to food safety issues. It provides data on people’s reports of their food purchasing, storage, preparation, consumption and factors that may affect these such as eating habits, influences on where respondents choose to eat out and experiences of food poisoning.
This is the third round of the survey which consisted of 3,453 interviews with a representative sample of adults aged 16 and over across the UK. Food and You is carried out on behalf on the FSA by TNS BMRB.
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