Croydon Council’s zero tolerance approach to protecting public health has led to the successful prosecution of a chicken shop after inspectors found dirty food storage, mouse droppings and poor food safety practices.
AA Chicken World Ltd., at 67 High Street, South Norwood, pleaded guilty to food safety offences and was fined £25,000 plus a victim surcharge of £10,000. Its director, Tharshan Makenthiram, who also admitted guilt, and was ordered to pay a total of £3,827, comprising a fine, costs and a victim surcharge.
The Council’s food safety team initial inspection of AA Chicken World Ltd. found the food storage fridge was not clean, food was t being stored incorrectly and the microwave was dirty. Staff did not have basic food safety knowledge.
A follow up visit by the Council found critical food safety issues, such as the fridge was still dirty with a lack of labels on food, mouse droppings on the counter shelves and staff displaying a lack of understanding of cross contamination. Hygiene Improvement notices were served but the Food Business Operator failed to comply.
The Council decided to prosecute owing to a failure to put in place a system for controlling food risk and get staff trained.
“Keeping residents safe is a priority and we have a zero-tolerance approach to businesses that put public health at risk.
“Food businesses have a legal responsibility to meet hygiene standards. Our food safety team works with businesses to help them improve, but where serious failings are ignored, we will not hesitate to take enforcement action.
“This prosecution sends a clear message – if you fail to comply with food safety laws and put residents at risk, you can expect to face the consequences.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
Residents can contact Croydon Council by emailing food.safety@croydon.gov.uk if they feel a Croydon business is selling food unsafely.
