Food premises where safety failings were identified have been fined £14,331.46 at York Magistrates Court today (28 August 2018).

Food premises where safety failings were identified have been fined £14,331.46 at York Magistrates Court today (28 August 2018).

A variety of food hygiene failures, including storing flour and rice in uncovered containers, were recently discovered by City of York Council’s food hygiene officers.

In some instances when the council issued advice and notices to improve, but required measures weren’t put in place to protect public health, legal action was taken.

Saffron Tandoori Spice, Unit 3 Acomb Wood Shopping Centre, Acomb Wood Drive, York

This relates to a food hygiene visit on 20 November 2017 and a further visit on 5 January 2018.

The premises and equipment were poor, and a previous visit to the premises had also been poor. There was a dirty light switch and pull chord, the hand wash basin for food handlers was dirty, the hand wash basin plug and chain were both encased with grease and food deposits. The food storage containers had old deposits attached due to inadequate washing, and there was a significant build up dirt around the kitchen doorframe.

This case is against Mr Thuhel Ahmed, aged 41 of Cowper Street, Leeds.  He is the owner of Saffron Tandoori Spice, Unit 3 Acomb Wood Shopping Centre, Acomb Wood Drive, York.

Mr Ahmed pleaded guilty to the two offences. The court heard that he had always tried his best to comply but the offences arose. He was fined £660 and ordered to ay a court surcharge of £66 and costs of £2,000 (a total of £2,726).

A spokesperson for City of York Council, said: “York offers many very good food premises and we want customers from the city and beyond to be confident in the quality of all the restaurants and takeaways they visit. Thanks to our food hygiene team’s vigilance, these issues have been identified and customers protected.

“We give advice which, if not complied with, can lead to legal action. We welcome customers reporting concerns to public.protection@york.gov.uk.

“Advice on food hygiene is available at www.york.gov.uk/FoodSafetyStandards or, any businesses wanting tailored advice and guidance, are welcome to call us on (01904) 551525.”