Concerns Raised As Quarter Of Isle Of Wight Food Inspections Missed

A councillor has raised concerns after it emerged that a quarter of food premises due for inspection on the Isle of Wight were not visited last year.

At a meeting of the council’s environment and community protection committee, Alliance councillor Paul Fuller questioned why only around 75 per cent of businesses requiring a food hygiene check were assessed in 2024/25.

He said inspections should be carried out regularly and asked for an explanation for the shortfall, also raising concerns that businesses are not required to display their hygiene ratings.

In response, council officer Rachel Briscoe said resources must be balanced against demand, but stressed that all high-risk premises were inspected.

She explained that businesses are rated based on risk, with higher-risk sites inspected more frequently, while lower-risk premises may only be checked every few years.

The council said while it would support mandatory display of hygiene ratings, that decision ultimately sits with the Food Standards Agency.