The NFFF is delighted to unveil the new NFFF Quality Accreditation Scheme sponsored by Sarson’s Vinegar.

The NFFF Quality Accreditation Scheme will replace the existing NFFF Quality Award which has acted as the fish and chip industry benchmark for best practice since 2011.

The accreditation will continue to identify fish and chip outlets that serve the highest quality fish and chips following a virtual assessment/audit of the premises, equipment, working practices, hygiene standards and management controls, together with the quality fish and chips.

To qualify, each shop has to go through an online audit which will then be inspected by an NFFF Approved Assessor who assesses the shop’s presentation, hygiene and cleanliness, staff training, equipment, frying and sales skills and most importantly the quality of the cooked product. Following the online audit, a zoom inspection will take place within the shop by the NFFF assessor.

This accreditation will continue to set the benchmark for quality within the industry.  It will signal to the consumer that they can buy with confidence where the certificate is displayed, and it will encourage more outlets to raise their standards.

The accreditation will also see Sarson’s Vinegar become the title sponsor. Craft brewed using the same method for more than 200 years and with over 15 million bottles sold each year, Sarson’s Malt Vinegar is the UK’s number one malt vinegar brand.

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NFFF President Andrew Crook said “We are delighted to be launching the new NFFF Fish and Chip Quality Accreditation and we hope more shops get involved in the scheme. Shops that achieve the standard to gain the accreditation will still have to demonstrate that they operate to the highest standards and are compliant with the latest legislation for food safety, Covid Security and serve the finest quality fish and chips.  By using technology more we are now making the scheme more accessible and affordable for shop to gain.

We are also very pleased to be working alongside Sarson’s; being both industry and consumer facing they are the perfect fit for the NFFF Quality Accreditation. It is a partnership which will helps us build and grow the scheme to new heights and really make the scheme one which the end consumer will notice and look out for.”

Bryan Carroll, Sarson’s Sales & Marketing Director said “As part of our ongoing support for quality fish & chip shops, we’re delighted to be official sponsors of the NFFF Fish & Chip Quality Accreditation Scheme. The iconic Q award is the highest accolade for chippies to obtain and an instantly recognisable sign for customers of a quality establishment.

The level of standard and excellence we uphold in our products matches that of the NFFF’s Accreditation Scheme and this sponsorship solidifies our commitment to serving quality fish and chips shops across Great Britain.”

The new Quality Accreditation will be valid for one year and retention is dependent on standards being maintained as validated by NFFF Officials and appointed Assessors.

Each year will see an annual announcement of shops within the scheme followed by a printed guide which will be distributed shortly after. Through the year other events will take place to celebrate the shops in the scheme.

NFFF Quality Accreditation – Questions and answers

I’m an existing NFFF Quality Award holder what does it mean for me?

If you are already an existing NFFF Quality Award holder you will be transferred into the new Quality Accreditation scheme. A new window sticker and marketing pack will be sent across to you in the coming weeks.

How much does it cost to join the scheme and what should I do now?

Once you join the scheme you will have to renew every year to maintain your place in the scheme. The annual cost is £125+VAT for NFFF members and £200+VAT for non NFFF members.

You can learn more about the scheme and how to apply, including the self-assessment form at www.qualityfishandchips.co.uk.

I have the old guidelines; do I need the new ones or is everything the still the same?

Yes, the guidelines have been updated and now cover for COVID. If you have the old guidelines, we ask you to simply dispose of them and to download the new guidelines using the following QR code.

If you would like a physical copy of the guidelines call NFFF Head Office on 0113 230 7044 or simply email QA@NFFF.co.uk

Why should I join the new NFFF Quality Accreditation scheme?

The Quality Accreditation is a great marketing opportunity and promoting your business through the display of an award such as this helps you to increase customer confidence and awareness, it also helps your business to stay one step ahead.

We are delighted to be working with Sarson’s UK,  an icon brand, and we are busy working on marketing plans to promote the award to the general public and more will be revealed in the coming months.

The Quality Accreditation scheme also acts as a great opportunity for your business to be independently audited by an experienced, industry approved assessor, helping you to pick up on areas where you can improve your business.

For more visit – www.qualityfishandchips.co.uk