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Surface ATP-bioluminescence was used in food retail premises to give an objective measure of biological contamination and hence hygienic standards expressed in relative light units (RLU). There was no relationship between surface contamination, reflected in high RLU readings, and the total inspection rating or any components of the rating of premises examined. A significant difference was found between RLU reading obtained from surfaces before and after routine cleaning in food premises. The potential use of ATP-bioluminescence as part of the inspection rating system for retail food premises is questioned. Incorporation of this technique into verification or audit procedures for risk assessment systems in food premises and as a measure of the effectiveness of cleaning is suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]