THE POPULAR fast food restaurant KFC has been given the lowest possible food hygiene rating. 

KFC on Leigh Road in Eastleigh was handed a zero-out-of-five score following an inspection. 

This score means that urgent improvement is needed to hygiene standards including the cleanliness and condition of facilities and the building.

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This includes having an appropriate layout, ventilation, hand washing facilities and pest control.

Inspectors found that "major improvement" was needed in the management of food safety. 

This means food must be safe to eat.

The management need to show evidence that staff know about food safety.

It was noted that improvements were needed in food handling, preparation, cooking, re-heating, cooling and storage. 

The inspection was carried out on February 17 and the rating is available on the Food Standard Agency's website. 

A KFC Spokesperson said: “The Colonel has the highest of standards so it’s a shame we fell short here.

"Rest assured, since getting the result, the restaurant team has been working really hard to get things back up to scratch.

"We’re confident we’ll be getting a high score soon, and we’re already in touch with the EHO (environmental health officer) and local council to arrange a follow-up inspection.”