5* rating for Saxonwood care home kitchen | News

We’re delighted that our catering team at Saxonwood care home in Battle have achieved a 5* food hygiene rating in a recent environmental health inspection.

The annual inspection by Rother District Council makes sure we comply with food law and produce food that is safe to eat. Inspectors look at our kitchen and store room, how we work, how we keep our food safe, and the ways we prepare it.

Tracie, Chef Manager at Saxonwood is very pleased with the 5* rating and said: “The inspection is on the spot, we have no idea they are coming. They ask a lot of questions about temperature checks, cleaning and control of our chopping boards, how we record and date our food. They do a thorough check of our cleanliness including behind the fridge and cupboards and in the ovens.

The two hour visit was useful for us and I think it’s important they visit so we know we’re achieving good hygiene. I’ve never got any less than a 5*! It’s great for our team as all their hard work and checks are being recognised and it feels good, I’m very proud of them.

Having a 5* hygiene rating is important when choosing a care home because it shows we cook hygienically and have excellent knowledge, as well as serving tasty, good looking food that’s appetising.

Our kitchen at Saxonwood has a large open hatch to our dining room, so it’s easy for residents and families to have a chat with myself and the team and they can see us in action, making the homemade, fresh food they enjoy eating!”

For more information about food hygiene ratings please visit: Food safety inspections and enforcement | Food Standards Agency