The CDC estimates that each year, 48 million people get sick from a foodborne illness, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die. Food safety is more important than ever and is becoming a hot topic issue. With states continuing to reform and pass laws that create stricter food safety requirements, it’s no surprise that Yelp is now publishing health inspection ratings along with reviews.
The update is part of the company’s Local Inspector Value Entry Specification, or LIVES, program. The health inspection score will be updated on a business’s page to reflect the most current information regarding hygiene.
The emphasis on food safety and the dedication to unifying the restaurant industry is something that will only continue to gain attention. Yelp is hoping that publishing health inspection scores will have a positive impact on consumers and the industry itself. The first few major cities in which Yelp included the scores along with the reviews have seen a decrease in hospitalizations from foodborne illness. In addition, posting hygiene scores on Yelp has led to a 12 percent decrease in purchase intentions for restaurants with low scores relative to those with higher scores.
The push for food safety highlights the importance of hygiene, food rotation, and allergy awareness. Consumers can already locate health code ratings through other avenues with some digging, but mobile devices make it easier for customers to rely on reviews for restaurant suggestions. Adding health scores will provide consumers with more information for that selection process.
Next time you’re browsing for lunch options, don’t take the chance that food poisoning and ruin your day; just check the health inspection ratings on Yelp!
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