A Bromyard butcher has been handed a two-star food hygiene rating after an inspector called by.
An inspection of Neil Gladwin Butchers in High Street on July 21 found issues with food storage, hygiene procedures and the condition of parts of the premises.
Among the concerns raised was a display chiller operating at too high a temperature, while inspectors also highlighted shortcomings in the cleaning and sanitising of a meat slicer. Unwrapped food was found in a freezer, creating a potential risk of cross-contamination.
The report also identified several structural issues. Mould and flaking paint were discovered in a dry store, while rodent droppings were found in a freezer store located across the yard from the main premises.
Although the inspector found no evidence of an active infestation within the shop itself, bait stations outside had recently been disturbed. The report stated this indicated the business was likely aware of rodent activity. It noted that steps have since been taken to pest-proof the affected area.
Inspectors found several items in need of repair or replacement. Chopping boards were heavily scored, a chair in the pie-making kitchen was described as “worn and dirty”, and a stand of a mixer was found to be rusty. A wall in the washing-up area was also unfinished and required decorating.
Several areas of the premises were judged to need more thorough cleaning, including hand-contact surfaces, freezers, floor junctions and the ceiling of the raw meat walk-in chiller.
The inspector questioned the business’s decision to apply a four-day shelf life to a number of high-risk products and noted that food on display appeared to be too warm. Fridge temperature monitoring records were also found to be out of date at the time of the visit.
Further issues included a rusty and broken drain cover in the rear yard, which has since been fixed.
Damaged wiring on a bowl mixer was also identified as a potential electrocution risk, with the business agreeing to arrange for an electrician to carry out repairs.
The business was approached for comment.
