Zero hygiene rating at Biscovey Fish Bar

Inspectors from Cornwall Council say urgent improvement is necessary at Biscovey Fish Bar after a zero hygiene rating.

Cornwall fish bar receives zero star food hygiene rating

A fish and chips takeaway in Cornwall has been given a zero rating by the Food Standards Agency’s FHRS after a full inspection carried out on July 23. Inspectors found serious gaps in hygienic handling of food, including preparation, cooking, re-heating, cooling and storage, and judged that major improvements were needed in how the business manages food safety. The cleanliness and condition of the building were also flagged as requiring major improvements.

The FHRS rating is designed to help customers choose where to eat or shop for food. A zero rating signals that the business must demonstrate a working system to keep food safe, staff knowledge of food safety, and confidence that standards will be maintained in the future. The inspectors also noted significant issues with the premises’ facilities and building.

The case highlights how a local health inspection operates and how a single site can affect public trust in a small business. A zero rating can create a reputational risk even as it emphasizes the importance of robust safety systems. The owner’s account of repairs contrasts with the inspectors’ concerns about ongoing food safety management, underscoring the tension between immediate fixes and long-term compliance.

Highlights

Kitchens evolve quickly after problems, but trust is rebuilt slowly.