Coventry City Council inspectors found a significant cockroach infestation along with rat activity at Peri Peri Original, a takeaway in Coventry, after a member of the public lodged a complaint. The inspectors visited the premises in February 2022 and found the location to be in a very dirty condition with rats seen in the yard where food was stored and prepared. As a result, the takeaway voluntarily closed for improvements and pest control measures. It was allowed to reopen three weeks later. However, during a surprise visit in August 2022, inspectors discovered more evidence of cockroaches, leading to another voluntary closure. The business was fined a total of £6,326.34, with the sole trader Abid Hussain and the business operator Aribah Ltd pleading guilty to food hygiene offenses.
In the first instance of hygiene offenses in February 2022, Abid Hussain was the sole trader and food business operator, while Aribah Ltd took over as the operator during the later incident in August 2022. Hussain was the director of Aribah Ltd at this time. He pleaded guilty to all charges and was fined £1,000, with additional costs and victim surcharge imposed. Aribah Ltd was also fined £2,000 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge. The business had to undertake necessary work to address the pest infestations before being allowed to reopen. However, Mr. Hussain claimed that he wasn’t regularly present at the premises due to personal reasons. The food business and Hussain admitted to failing in pest control procedures, cleanliness, maintenance, and construction of the premises related to food hygiene.
The Coventry City Council stressed the importance of having adequate procedures to ensure food safety in food businesses in the city. Davina Blackburn, the strategic lead for regulation, emphasized that food hygiene offenses are serious matters, and the fines imposed reflect this seriousness. The courts sent a strong message by taking formal action in this case, highlighting the necessity for compliance with food safety regulations. The authorities mentioned that it was disappointing to find the conditions deteriorate again at the business, leading to the subsequent closure and penalties. Food businesses were reminded to maintain proper hygiene standards to ensure the safety of the food they serve at all times.
Despite the fines and closures, the takeaway business was able to reopen after addressing the pest control issues and implementing necessary hygiene procedures. The food authorities and inspectors conduct regular checks and unannounced visits to ensure compliance with food safety standards. The takeaway case serves as a reminder to all food businesses to prioritize hygiene practices, maintenance, and pest control to prevent incidents of infestations in their premises. It also highlights the consequences of failing to maintain these standards, such as closure, fines, and legal action. Customers play an essential role in reporting any concerns or issues they observe while visiting food establishments to enable authorities to take appropriate action promptly.
The takeaway’s case underscores the critical role of food safety officers, local councils, and regulatory bodies in monitoring and enforcing food hygiene standards across restaurants, takeaways, and other food establishments. Regular inspections and interventions are essential to prevent health risks and ensure compliance with regulations. Businesses must proactively implement measures to address hygiene concerns, pest infestations, and maintenance issues to safeguard public health and maintain their reputation. The fines and penalties imposed on the Peri Peri Original demonstrate the seriousness of food hygiene offenses and the need for businesses to adhere to strict standards to protect consumers and maintain a safe environment for food preparation and service.
