Food grading

Frequently asked questions

Why are food premises on the North Shore graded?
To give the public more information about the standard of your business premises and practices.

Are other councils using grading?
Yes. Manukau City Council, Auckland City Council, Waitakere City Council and Rodney District Council already use the grading system.

How is the grade determined?
The food safety evaluation form is used to determine the rating, which is calculated by adding the scores in the four categories: premises, conduct, cleaning and sanitising, and training. The maximum score per category is five.

Does an 'A' grade guarantee customers won't get sick?
No. The grading is an assessment of conditions and practices the inspector found on the day on inspection.

Where will the grading be displayed?
They will be clearly displayed in or about the principal entrance in a location where the public can see the grade.

What does an exemption mean?
Some food premises have a food safety programme in place approved by the New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA). These premises are exempt from being graded by North Shore City Council and are subject to regular audits by the NZFSA. These premises display an 'exempt' grade in our food grading search. Exemption is granted because an approved food safety programme will give a greater level of confidence in the safety of food than could be expected by compliance with the Food Hygiene Regulations 1974.

What if I can't find a food premise I know is operating?
The food premise may be registered under a company name but using a different (trading name) that is recognised by customers.

Questions and answers for food premise operators

When are food premises graded?
The grading is part of the registration certificate and administered according to the requirements of the Food Hygiene Regulations 1974. The grading is assigned at the routine inspection.

What does it cost food premise owners?
The annual registration fee will continue to be set according to the level of compliance with the Food Hygiene Regulations. A $60 fee for reinspections to check requisitions still applies.

Can food premises get a grading changed?
Premises with a B or C grade can apply to be regraded after 4 weeks. Premises with a D or E grade can apply to be regraded after 8 weeks. The application for regrading a premises costs $150.00

How long does a certificate last?
The certificate is valid for 12 months. The original grading remains for a minimum period of two months.

What about mobile shops and new premises?
Mobile shops will not be graded. New premises will not be graded on the initial inspection but after a follow-up inspection within three months of opening.

If you have further questions, please contact Actionline on 486 8600, and ask to speak to an environmental health officer.