Long’s SuperValu Woodburn Derry has been awarded the Emerald Excellence Ireland Quality Association (EIQA) Hygiene Mark Certificate, at its first attempt to gain it. The store has double reason for celebration, having both received the highest level of Hygiene Mark and marking its one year anniversary of joining the SuperValu brand.

The Hygiene Mark standard provides official recognition of consistent hygiene controls implemented by businesses across the food industry, including supermarkets, bakeries, food processors, restaurants and hotels.

To gain the award, participating stores have regular hygiene audits and spot-checks covering every area of the business from food preparation to storage and retailing. All hygiene procedures are documented and staff training is a key element for successful hygiene mark businesses. Holding the hygiene mark not only demonstrates compliance to HACCP legislation it provides a benchmark of ‘good practice’ for the food retail sector while protecting the consumer.

Manager Angie Middleton said: "Training our staff is key to business success and it is something we take very seriously at Long’s SuperValu Woodburn. Hygiene in all stores should be at the highest possible standard and receiving this award highlights our commitment to bringing our customers consistently high levels of service and creating a clean and safe environment for them to shop in."

The Hygiene & Food Safety Programme is synonymous with the highest standards of hygiene and food safety in Irish industry, complying with all Irish and European legislation. Musgrave retailers are very much leading the field. The awards clearly demonstrate the commitment to quality, and their aim to serve their customers better.

The Hygiene Mark was launched in 1988 and continues to be the only voluntary based National hygiene programme in Europe. Musgrave first introduced the scheme into Northern Ireland in 1997 aiming to match the success and public recognition of the Hygiene Mark in the Republic of Ireland.

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