Halal meat store in Walsall temporarily forced to close due to mice

On February 22, 2024, Environmental Health Officers visited A1 Halal Meat on Caldmore Road and were greeted with mouse droppings not only on the floor but also inside trays and containers used for herbs and spices.      

Droppings and nesting materials were also found in a chest freezer along with multiple access holes and gaps identified throughout the premises.      

In addition to this, a gnawed plastic bag was discovered underneath the till of the store, with further evidence of gnawing found in the insulation foam near the meter box of the premises.     

Environmental Health Officers determined that there was an imminent risk to the health of the public and therefore issued a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice, temporarily closing the business.      

Walsall Council officers attended Wolverhampton Magistrates Court on February 27, 2024, where, upon seeing photographic evidence, it was concluded that the Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice had been correctly served, resulting in a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order.      

The Food Business Operator was also ordered to pay Walsall Council costs in the sum of £475.      

Councillor Garry Perry, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Resilient Communities at Walsall Council said, “I want to place on record my thanks to our environmental health professionals who work hard to keep us safe.   

“I welcome this action as an infestation of mice within any food business poses a very serious risk to public health.      

“To keep everyone safe, food businesses must remain clean and adhere to food hygiene laws, and we are ready to take necessary action against those who flout the law.”  

A1 Halal Meat reopened on February 28, 2024, after the owners had conducted a thorough cleaning of the premises.   

This included undertaking pest-proofing work and pest control treatment.   

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