Keep pests off the menu: winter warning for Walsall food businesses
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As colder weather can drive rodents indoors in search of food and shelter, Walsall Council’s Environmental Health officers are highlighting the consequences of inadequate pest control.
Since January 2025, serious pest infestations and hygiene failures have led to seven food businesses in Walsall being formally closed by the council, with a further five closing voluntarily. During the same period, Environmental Health officers dealt with 54 complaints about rodent infestations at food premises across the borough. Four businesses were prosecuted and fined, while three were issued with cautions.
Rodents can contaminate food, preparation surfaces and equipment, creating serious health and hygiene risks. Businesses must maintain effective pest prevention measures and act quickly if signs of an infestation are found.
Failure to meet food hygiene requirements can result in enforcement action from the council, including closure where there is an imminent risk to public health.
“ As the seasons change, so do the pests that can become problematic. Food businesses should have effective pest control measures in place and act quickly if they spot signs of an infestation.
Residents should be able to eat food from a business knowing it has been prepared in safe, hygienic conditions. Rats and mice can contaminate food and preparation areas, putting customers at risk.
Our Environmental Health officers provide advice and guidance, but where businesses fail to meet the required standards, we will take enforcement action to protect public health. “
Environmental Health officers carry out unannounced inspections at food businesses across the borough to assess pest control measures and ensure food is handled hygienically, premises are kept clean and food safety risks are properly managed. Officers also provide advice and guidance to help businesses meet food hygiene requirements and maintain the standards expected by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).
Common signs of rodent activity for businesses to be aware of include droppings, gnaw marks, damaged food packaging, unusual smells and sightings of rats or mice. Businesses should check food preparation areas, storage rooms and delivery areas regularly.
Gaps around doors, pipes, vents and roofs should be sealed to prevent rodents entering buildings. Waste should be stored securely, and food stock arranged so that areas can be cleaned and inspected easily. Staff should also know how to recognise signs of pest activity.
Businesses that suspect an infestation should seek professional pest control advice and address any underlying problems, including entry points, waste storage and cleaning arrangements.
Residents with concerns about food hygiene at a business in Walsall can contact the council’s Environmental Health team by emailing EnvironmentalHealth@walsall.gov.uk.
Food businesses can also find advice through the National Pest Technicians Association and the British Pest Control Association.
