In this article
In the catering industry, maintaining rigorous safety and hygiene standards is essential due to the high risks associated with foodborne illnesses. Foodborne illnesses, also known as food poisoning, can occur for a number of reasons, including:
Improper food handling
If food handlers don’t follow proper hygiene practices, such as washing hands thoroughly before touching food, bacteria and pathogens can easily transfer from their hands to the food. Food handlers who are sick, especially with gastrointestinal infections, can spread illness-causing microbes to food through direct or indirect contact. Contaminated surfaces, utensils and equipment can also transfer harmful microbes to food.
Cross-contamination
Cross-contamination happens when harmful bacteria from raw foods, such as meats, poultry and seafood, come into contact with ready-to-eat foods through shared surfaces or equipment. For example, cutting raw chicken and vegetables on the same board without cleaning them in between can transfer bacteria from the meat to the vegetables.
Inadequate cooking
Undercooking certain foods, especially meat, poultry, eggs and seafood, can leave harmful bacteria alive in the food. Thorough cooking to recommended internal temperatures kills most pathogens and ensures the food is safe to eat.
Improper storage
Bacteria multiply quickly when food is kept in the Danger Zone (8°C to 63°C). Leaving perishable foods out at room temperature for too long or storing them at the wrong temperature can lead to bacterial growth.
Contaminated ingredients
Sometimes ingredients are contaminated before they even reach the kitchen, as is the case with produce contaminated with harmful bacteria, such as E. coli or Salmonella, during farming or processing. Using contaminated raw ingredients without proper washing or cooking can spread foodborne illness.
Poor food hygiene and improper food practices can result in contamination, the spread of foodborne illnesses and potential legal issues. For caterers, especially those serving large events or vulnerable populations, even a single lapse in safety can have serious consequences and can impact both customer health and the reputation of the business. Consistently upholding high safety standards not only protects customers but also strengthens a business’s image, increases client trust and supports long-term growth.
Here we will showcase three catering businesses that have excelled in food safety practices and highlight how their commitment to hygiene and safety has set them apart in the industry. These success stories serve as valuable models for best practices and offer actionable insights for other catering businesses looking to prioritise safety and build a strong reputation in the catering industry.
Selection of Businesses
To showcase the importance of food safety and hygiene in catering, we’ve selected three UK-based catering businesses with exceptional safety records. These businesses represent a range of sectors within catering, from large-scale event catering to small, private operations. Each has been recognised for its dedication to safety and hygiene and can act as a model for best practices in the catering industry.
Rocket Food
Based in London, Rocket Food is a well-regarded, luxury catering company specialising in high-end events and private dining. Rocket Food was established in 2000, and is known for catering prestigious events such as sports events, corporate events, lunches and private cook-alongs. They also offer luxury canapé delivery. Rocket maintains strict hygiene protocols and is committed to sustainable and safe practices. The company is recognised for its excellent food quality and meticulous attention to detail in food safety, consistently holding high hygiene ratings.
Compass Group UK and Ireland
The Compass Group is the top catering and hospitality provider in the UK and Ireland and has been operating in the catering industry for more than 75 years. Responsible for thousands of caterers across the UK, they are part of Compass Group PLC, which operates in 35 countries around the world and serves more than 5.5 billion meals every year. The Compass Group is committed to maintaining the highest standard of food safety and has created a Food Safety Policy Statement that is followed by all food businesses under the Compass Group umbrella.
Elior UK
Elior has more than 10,000 people working for seven brands across the UK. Founded in 1991, Elior operates in five countries and is one of the world’s leading contract catering businesses. They have won multiple awards, including Healthcare Caterer of the Year 2023, Education Caterer of the Year 2022 and the Public Sector Catering Award for Health and Nutrition in 2022.
Success Story 1: Rocket Food
Rocket Food is a premier catering company based in London and founded in 2000 by a brother and sister duo. Rocket has built a reputation for providing luxury catering services for high-profile events, weddings and exclusive private functions. The business is family-run and has grown steadily over the years to become a trusted name in bespoke catering, known for its commitment to quality, attention to detail and exceptional service. Rocket Food’s clients include top venues, corporations and private individuals seeking tailored, gourmet menus and an elevated dining experience. Their focus on premium ingredients and meticulous food presentation sets them apart in the competitive London catering market.
Rocket Food upholds rigorous food safety standards, with HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) compliance forming the foundation of their hygiene protocols. They currently have a 5/5 food hygiene rating from a 2023 inspection with the Food Standards Agency (FSA). They also won the award for Best Catering Company: COVID-19 Response in 2021.
Key practices include:
Hygienic food handling
The FSA found that all aspects of food handling, including preparation, cooking, reheating, cooling and storage, are hygienic and protect the health and safety of the food, customers and the staff. Rocket follows stringent food handling practices, from when ingredients first enter the premises, to when food is transported to and served to clients.
Cleanliness
All food storage and preparation areas are subject to strict stringent sanitation procedures, which include thorough cleaning and disinfecting of all surfaces, equipment and food areas. The FSA scored Rocket as ‘Very Good’ (the highest possible rating) for cleanliness and the condition of their facilities and building, including ventilation, handwashing facilities and good food hygiene.
Food safety checks
Rocket has systems in place to ensure that all food is safe to eat and that staff are aware of food safety and how to maintain high standards. This includes temperature control measures and temperature checks. Rocket also follows all UK guidelines and regulations regarding allergen management and has put policies in place to prevent cross-contact. They also ensure that allergen information is readily available to clients.
Staff training
Staff members receive extensive training on food safety, hygiene and allergen awareness. Training is refreshed regularly to keep all employees up to date with the latest safety protocols.
These practices have not only protected the health of their clients but have also improved Rocket Food’s reputation as a catering company that prioritises safety without compromising quality. Their adherence to high standards has earned them a Five-Star Food Hygiene Rating and has led to longstanding relationships with clients who value reliability and professionalism.
One of the main challenges faced by large, successful companies such as Rocket Food is managing consistency in safety practices during peak event seasons when demand is high and temporary staff may need to be brought in to assist. Additionally, as is common in the food industry, staff turnover can sometimes be high. To address this, Rocket Food has structured an onboarding programme for all new and temporary staff that includes mandatory training in food safety and hygiene. This ensures that even during busy times, all team members are well-versed in Rocket Food’s safety protocols.
In addition, Rocket Food has implemented digital tools which allow managers to oversee safety metrics across different venues and events simultaneously. These tools provide instant alerts for any irregularities in temperature or storage and allow the team to address issues immediately and maintain consistent safety standards.
Through these innovative solutions and their commitment to rigorous safety protocols, Rocket Food has successfully navigated the challenges of operating in a demanding industry while protecting the health of its clients and maintaining a sterling reputation for quality and safety.
Success Story 2: Compass Group UK & Ireland
Compass Group UK and Ireland is one of the largest food service companies in the UK and provides a broad range of catering services across various sectors, including corporate, healthcare, education, sports and leisure. The company serves millions of customers every year, from university cafeterias to corporate dining rooms and healthcare facilities, and is known for its extensive food safety measures and commitment to quality service. The Compass Group runs its own food safety and hygiene training to ensure all its food businesses and employees are following food safety and hygiene standards and regulations.
Compass Group’s success is largely due to its rigorous safety protocols and its adoption of cutting-edge food safety technology. Key strategies include:
Ongoing staff training
With such a large workforce, Compass Group places a high emphasis on continuous staff education. Employees at all levels participate in regular training sessions covering food safety, personal hygiene and allergen management. Compass Group also incentivises staff to complete external certifications in food safety to ensure that all employees are knowledgeable and aligned with the company’s safety-first mindset.
Advanced cleaning protocols
Compass Group has implemented comprehensive cleaning and sanitisation protocols across all kitchens and dining areas. They use automated cleaning systems and antimicrobial coatings on surfaces to ensure high hygiene levels, particularly in healthcare settings where cleanliness is paramount.
Allergen awareness
Compass Group has a dedicated Allergen Awareness page on their website to help reduce the risk of food allergy incidents. This includes allergen training, allergen risk assessments and an allergen folder for each location, staff posters, allergen tablets, strict labelling procedures and allergen information for customers.
Food safety checks
Employees conduct regular food safety checks, including monitoring food temperatures during preparation, storage and transport. All safety checks are documented. Managers also supervise activities and periodic audits are performed to check safety standards are maintained.
Compass Group’s unwavering commitment to food safety has had a profound impact on its business growth and client relationships. By consistently upholding high safety standards, Compass Group has developed strong, long-term partnerships with clients who prioritise food safety, including prominent corporations, educational institutions and healthcare providers. The company’s reputation for reliability and compliance with safety regulations has made it the preferred caterer for many organisations where food safety is paramount, such as hospitals and schools.
As a result, Compass Group has been able to expand its client base and deepen its relationships with major clients who trust Compass to uphold rigorous standards. Their safety-first approach has not only protected the health of millions of diners but has also solidified Compass Group’s status as a leading player in the UK catering industry.
Success Story 3: Elior UK
Elior UK, a branch of the international Elior Group, is a leading contract caterer that serves a diverse range of sectors, including NHS trusts and hospitals, education, corporate dining, care homes and retirement living and well-known British attractions and heritage sites. Elior provides meals to thousands of people daily and has won multiple awards across sectors. It scores a 5/5 hygiene rating from the Food Standards Agency (FSA). With a focus on sustainability, health and innovation, the company is recognised for its commitment to high standards in both food quality and safety. Elior UK has received numerous accolades, including a Five-Star Food Hygiene Rating and several awards for its outstanding commitment to food safety and workplace practices.
Elior UK has implemented a robust suite of safety strategies that emphasise proactive measures and technological solutions:
Daily hygiene audits and rigorous sanitation protocols
Elior maintains strict hygiene standards by conducting daily audits of kitchen and service areas to monitor sanitation levels, food handling procedures and equipment maintenance. Comprehensive cleaning protocols are enforced at all locations to ensure that food preparation environments are sanitised to high standards before, during and after each service.
Innovative food safety technology
To improve monitoring and consistency, Elior utilises real-time digital tools such as temperature monitoring systems that track food storage and preparation conditions. This technology ensures that perishable items are kept at safe temperatures and provides alerts if conditions deviate, allowing for quick corrective action.
Food hygiene audits
Elior carries out regular audits to control the quality of their food and to ensure the highest food safety and hygiene standards. They review their food safety strategy every year and have a dedicated Health and Safety team to help protect the health, safety and well-being of their staff and customers.
Food allergen management
Elior has implemented a food allergen tracking system to provide accurate allergen information to clients and to prevent cross-contamination in their kitchens. Staff receive specialised allergen awareness training, making Elior a trusted choice for clients in healthcare and educational settings where allergen management is critical.
These practices collectively create a safe, hygienic environment that reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses and improves client confidence in Elior’s service. Elior’s steadfast commitment to food safety has had a significant impact on its business growth and reputation. Their rigorous hygiene standards and proactive safety practices have made them a preferred caterer for clients who prioritise food safety, particularly in sensitive sectors like the NHS, care homes and education. This reputation has enabled Elior to secure and maintain partnerships with some of the UK’s most reputable organisations, who value the caterer’s dedication to quality and safety.
By continually investing in staff training and advanced food safety technology, Elior has successfully built a loyal client base and expanded its market reach. Their commitment to safety not only protects the well-being of those they serve but also reinforces their position as a trusted leader in the UK catering industry.
Practical Takeaways
For catering businesses aiming to enhance their food safety standards, the following actionable tips drawn from the successful practices of Rocket Food, Compass Group and Elior can serve as a guide to creating safer, more reliable food service environments.
Regular training
Establish regular food safety and hygiene training sessions to keep all employees updated on best practices and regulatory changes. Cover topics such as allergen management, cross-contamination prevention and personal hygiene. It is also recommended to provide specific training for roles with high-risk responsibilities (e.g. allergen management for chefs or temperature monitoring for kitchen staff) to improve their understanding and compliance. To ensure consistently high food safety practices, hold annual refresher courses and conduct assessments to ensure employees retain critical food safety knowledge and skills.
Proactive monitoring
Implement real-time temperature monitoring systems for food storage and preparation areas to ensure that food stays within safe temperature ranges. Instant alerts can help address issues immediately and reduce food spoilage or contamination risks. Establish a routine of daily inspections to verify that sanitation protocols are followed in all food-handling areas. This practice can quickly identify and resolve potential hazards.
It can also be helpful to conduct regular internal health and safety audits to ensure adherence to hygiene protocols and identify any areas for improvement. External audits by third-party specialists can add an extra layer of accountability and credibility.
Clear communication
Communication, with staff and customers, is key. Set up regular team meetings or briefings where staff can discuss safety issues or concerns openly and encourage a culture of accountability where team members feel comfortable reporting safety concerns without fear of reprimand. It could also be beneficial to communicate food safety and hygiene policies with customers and clients, to improve their trust and encourage customer loyalty. Informing clients of your safety practices and protocols can help you maintain clients and grow your business, as transparency builds trust. Communication can be achieved through client handouts, menu labelling and website information detailing safety measures.
Another important aspect of communication in the food industry is being transparent with allergen information. Clearly label allergens on menus and provide full ingredient information to clients to ensure they can make safe food choices and are not accidentally exposed to an allergen. Make allergen details readily accessible to front-line staff and clients to avoid misunderstandings.
Invest in food safety technology
Food safety technology can help to improve food safety and hygiene and streamline operations. Consider investing in automated or semi-automated cleaning systems to streamline sanitation in busy, high-volume kitchens as this can help to reduce human error and maintain consistency. It can also be beneficial to use digital traceability systems to track food sources, suppliers and handling processes. This can help prevent potential issues by ensuring that only safe, verified ingredients are used and enable quick responses in case of recalls or incidents.
Establish a culture of safety first
Promote a safety-first mindset at all levels of the business by embedding food safety as a core organisational value. Recognise and reward team members who consistently adhere to safety protocols to encourage accountability. To establish a positive culture surrounding food safety, management should model best practices to inspire the same behaviour in staff. When leaders prioritise safety, employees are more likely to follow suit.
Continuous improvement
Food safety standards are constantly evolving and staying current is essential. Periodically review safety protocols, integrating feedback from staff and clients and adapting to any regulatory changes. Another way to ensure continuous improvement is by analysing previous incidents and ensuring you learn from them. If a safety issue occurs, conduct a thorough investigation to understand the cause of the issue and prevent it from reoccurring. Once any investigations are complete, implement corrective actions and communicate lessons learned to the team.
Conclusion
In the catering industry, maintaining a stellar safety record is crucial, not just for legal compliance but also for long-term business success. Food safety isn’t just a regulatory requirement, it is also essential for building customer trust, brand reputation and operational efficiency. As we’ve seen in the success stories of catering businesses like Rocket Food, Compass Group and Elior, a commitment to high safety standards can drive business growth, increase loyal client relationships and help caterers navigate the increasingly competitive and regulated market.
By implementing rigorous safety protocols, embracing technology and creating a culture of responsibility, catering businesses can not only avoid costly health incidents but also gain a competitive edge. The case studies demonstrate that safety-first practices, such as regular training, proactive monitoring, clear communication and continuous improvement, are essential tools in building a strong and sustainable business.
As you reflect on these case studies, consider how you can integrate similar food safety strategies into your own business. Whether you’re running a large-scale corporate catering operation or a small, private catering service, adopting a safety-first mindset is an investment that will pay dividends in customer loyalty, trust and, ultimately, your business’s long-term success.
