Why Safe to Trade is the standard consumers deserve

When you choose where to eat, you’re not just picking a menu—you’re trusting that the food is safe, the staff are trained and the environment is clean. But with stretched local authority resources and inspections happening less often than expected, how can you be sure?

The Proof

Safe to Trade is the new consumer-facing standard designed to fill the gap. It’s a voluntary third-party assurance programme tailored for the UK hospitality and catering sectors. It goes beyond basic hygiene ratings to focus on what matters most to consumers: allergen safety, front-of-house cleanliness, labelling accuracy, and trust.

The Transition

Let’s explore why Safe to Trade is the standard that puts people first.

What Is Safe to Trade?

Safe to Trade is the UK’s first comprehensive assurance programme for hospitality and catering. It’s designed to complement existing systems like the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS), but with a sharper focus on consumer priorities.

Unlike FHRS, which is often delayed due to inspection backlogs, Safe to Trade provides regular, independent audits by qualified Environmental Health Practitioners. Businesses that meet the standard are approved and listed on the Safe to Trade register, giving consumers peace of mind and helping businesses thrive.

Why It Matters to Consumers

Consumers expect food to be safe—but they also care about:

• Allergen controls: Safe to Trade includes clear standards for allergen labelling and staff awareness.
• Front-of-house hygiene: Clean counters, toilets and visible safety cues are part of the audit.
• Labelling and authenticity: Accurate menus and food claims are verified.
• Safetotrade.com allows you to search for a Safe to Trade venue, helping you make informed choices—even on the go.

Safe to Trade is designed to reassure everyone, including vulnerable groups like pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with food allergies.

Why It’s Needed Now

Local authority inspections are under pressure:

• Food hygiene spending fell by 19% between 2012 and 2018.
• There are 147 fewer food hygiene officers and 182 fewer trading standards officers than a decade ago.
• Many hospitality businesses wait 18 months to 2 years or longer for an inspection.

Safe to Trade helps fill this gap with consistent, independent oversight.

What “Approved” Means

To be approved:

• Businesses undergo an unannounced audit.
• They receive a report and address any non-conformances.
• Once verified, they’re listed on the Safe to Trade register.
• They display a sticker and certificate to show their approved status.
• Annual audits and ongoing monitoring ensure standards are maintained.

Why Consumers Can Trust It

Safe to Trade is governed by an Independent Governance Board and a Technical Standards Committee. It’s working toward ISO/IEC 17065 accreditation and follows impartiality protocols to ensure fairness and transparency.

Conclusion: A Safer, More Confident Dining Experience
Safe to Trade is more than a sticker on the door. It’s a consumer standard. It’s a sign that a business is committed to safety, transparency, and consumer wellbeing. It’s the standard that reflects your expectations—and it’s helping make the UK a safer place to eat.