Scores on the Doors star ratings ditched

The 'Scores on the Doors' initiative is now one step closer to being rolled out following the publication of independent consumer research.

The British Hospitality Association (BHA) has "cautiously" welcomed the findings of research helping to shape the national food hygiene rating scheme.

In line with the findings, the scheme will be based on a numerical system, which consumers said they found easier to understand.

BHA food and technical adviser, John Dyson, welcomed the move and said: "It is far more satisfactory to have a simple numerical scale and descriptors such as 'satisfactory or 'very good'."

But there will still be six ratings in the scheme, which the BHA argued is too confusing for consumers.

However, the association welcomed the news that operators could appeal against rating decisions and request a revisit, and that guidance would be offered to local authorities.

BHA food and technical adviser John Dyson said: "The fact the Food Standards Association is to offer guidance to local authorities in implementing the scheme is a very welcome move. What is needed in this area is consistency."

He added: "We welcome the decision not to award stars to each rating, which was another of our principal concerns. We are pleased our view prevailed.

"Stars would have been confusing to the public and could have implied that they related to the standard of food."

FSA head of enforcement Sarah Appleby said: "Publishing individual hygiene ratings for cafés, shops and restaurants will not only give diners and shoppers information to help them choose the safest place to buy food, but will also, over time, drive up standards and help prevent food poisoning.

"Food poisoning is not only unpleasant but can be dangerous, and is estimated to cost the economy about £1.5 billion each year."