Potato manufacturing company closed after inspection reveals rat infestation

A company that makes chips has been closed after an inspection by Great Yarmouth Borough Council revealed a rat infestation, a very poor standard of cleaning and stagnant water in the food preparation area.

The council carried out an unannounced routine food hygiene inspection of Broadland Potatoes in Swanstons Road, Great Yarmouth, on January 21 and the problems were discovered.

As a result, the council served a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice on the company which required Broadland Potatoes to close immediately. On January 23, the council then attended a hearing at Norwich Magistrates' Court where an order was granted to ensure the food manufacturer remains shut until the council is satisfied health standards are met and conditions have improved.

Officers said the action was essential because rats can cause illness through contamination of food meaning they pose an imminent risk of injury to health.

Councillor Paul Wells, portfolio holder for Environment and Sustainability, Licensing and Waste at GYBC, said: ''We have many excellent food companies that work hard to meet the required standards of food hygiene. However, there are unfortunately some occasions where some businesses fall short of those standards.''

A spokesperson for the council added: "It is imperative that food companies maintain hygiene and food safety at all times. It should be right at the top of their priorities to ensure public safety.

''Officers will not hesitate to act quickly if they believe public health is at risk. Our Environmental Health team wants to work with businesses to maintain high standards and our staff are on hand to provide guidance and advice so people can operate safely."

To contact a member of the Environmental Health team at GYBC email [email protected] or telephone 01493 846478.