ENVIRONMENTAL health officers will continue to crack down on poor food hygiene this year.

Basildon council's environmental health team regularly inspects food premises to ensure outlets reach acceptable standards.

Although more eateries are complying, a rising number of proprietors are facing enforcement action.

Councillor Richard Moore, who has responsibility for environmental health, said: "We suspect that some operators may be feeling the pinch due to the economic climate, making it difficult for them to invest in their businesses and staff.

"However, this can never be an excuse for putting the health of the public at risk. Our officers are on hand to offer advice and support.

"Legal proceedings are our last resort but if food businesses ignore our officers' advice and continue to breach good hygiene practices, we will take action."

The council has prosecuted five food operators since April and given formal cautions to three more.

Mahmood Naseri, of Up the Road in Cranes Farm Road, was prosecuted for 13 food safety offences including using staff who were not trained.

For more information about the Food Standards Agency's Rating Scheme, visit food.gov.uk/safereating/hyg/hygieneratings

To view the ratings of premises in the borough visit: http://ratings.food.gov.uk/