A Smethwick butcher has been prosecuted for failing to meet minimum food hygiene standards.
Mohammed Rashid of M.A.Halal Meat in Shireland Road pleaded guilty to 14 offences in Wolverhampton Magistrates Court on Friday 25 October. Mr Rashid has received a £240 fine for each offence totalling £3,360. He was also ordered to pay costs of £3,500 and a victim surcharge of £30.
Inspectors from Sandwell Council’s environmental health team visited the premises on several occasions during 2018 following a complaint from a member of the public.
Inspectors found poor standards of hygiene including evidence of pests, poor cleaning standards and inadequate waste disposal facilities.
Neil Cox, director of prevention and protection, welcomed the prosecution. He said: “Our officers worked with the owners of the business and they were given chance to make the necessary improvements to improve hygiene standards.
“Unfortunately, when inspectors returned they found the business had not made the necessary improvements and that prosecution was necessary.
“We work to ensure members of the public are not exposed to unsafe food practices and will continue to work with this business owner to ensure standards at the premises improve.
“I urge members of the public to report any food hygiene concerns to us using our online form. I also want to remind food businesses of their duty to ensure they run a safe and hygienic business and failure to do so may result in prosecution.”
