Manchester University SU bar receives hygiene rating of two after recent FSA inspection

The University of Manchester Student Union bar and kitchen had its hygiene rating lowered following a Food Standards Agency inspection.

Previously rated a five, 532 Bar and Kitchen has been recategorised as a two after a visit in March 2025.

The business has removed its rating sticker following the visit, and the certificate has not yet been replaced.

According to the Food Standards Agency, inspections are assessed based on hygienic food handling, cleanliness and condition of buildings and management of food safety. Management of food safety and hygienic food handling were rated “generally satisfactory” and “very good respectively”.

However, the student union bar received an “Improvement necessary” grade for the cleanliness and condition of the building. This includes having appropriate layout, ventilation, hand washing facilities and pest control, all of which are needed to enable good food hygiene

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The new rating means the premises have “some improvements” to make to bring the business up to top standards.

There may be a temporary difference between ratings displayed at a business and those published online, due to appeals.

A spokesperson from the student union addressed rumours of pest activity in the area, saying that: “We take food hygiene and the safety of both our visitors and staff very seriously. We are actively addressing mice activity in our venue. While this can occur in older, high-footfall spaces, we’ve taken this issue seriously and are working to manage and prevent further activity in an effective and ethically responsible way.”

“The previous 5-star hygiene certificate was removed in line with food hygiene regulations. The Environmental Health Officer made several recommendations, which we fully acknowledge and have implemented to ensure the safety of everyone using the venue. We are currently awaiting a requested revisit from the Food Standards Agency.  Unfortunately, there was a delay in replacing the 5-star certificate, but this has now been rectified.

“We are grateful to our staff and visitors for their patience as we work through these improvements. Safety, hygiene, and welfare remain our top priorities.”

Featured image via Instagram @532.bar.kitchen