Care home with fridge operating above 15 degrees handed one-star food hygiene
News November 11, 2025

Care home with fridge operating above 15 degrees handed one-star food hygiene

Eastcotts Nursing Home in Calford Green, between Kedington and Haverhill, has been handed a one-star food hygiene rating by West Suffolk Council.

**Eastcotts Nursing Home Receives One-Star Food Hygiene Rating Following Inspection**

Eastcotts Nursing Home in Calford Green, a residential facility nestled between Kedington and Haverhill, has been issued a one-star food hygiene rating after a recent inspection by West Suffolk Council. The rating, indicating that major improvement is necessary, raises concerns about the safety and quality of food handling practices within the home.

The low rating was a direct result of significant issues identified during the inspection. One of the most alarming findings was a refrigerator operating at temperatures exceeding 15 degrees Celsius. Maintaining proper refrigeration temperatures is crucial in preventing the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Food stored at such elevated temperatures poses a serious health risk, particularly to vulnerable residents in a care home setting.

The one-star rating signifies that West Suffolk Council has determined that Eastcotts Nursing Home's food hygiene standards are significantly below acceptable levels. The council uses a rating system from zero to five, with zero indicating the worst possible hygiene standards and five representing excellent standards. A one-star rating triggers a mandatory review and requires the establishment to implement immediate and comprehensive corrective actions.

The inspection likely covered various aspects of food safety, including food preparation, storage, cooking, cleaning, and pest control. While the specific details beyond the faulty refrigerator have not been publicly released, a one-star rating generally indicates shortcomings across multiple areas of food safety management.

West Suffolk Council will be working with Eastcotts Nursing Home to ensure that necessary improvements are made swiftly. This will likely involve providing guidance and support to the home's management and staff on implementing effective food safety practices. Re-inspections will be carried out to monitor progress and ensure that the required standards are met. The health and well-being of the residents at Eastcotts Nursing Home are paramount, and the council is committed to ensuring that the facility takes all necessary steps to rectify the identified issues and improve its food hygiene rating. The public can expect further updates as the situation evolves.
Category: Politics