A major UK meat wholesaler, Russell Hume, has had to issue a recall of meat products from the supply chain following an unannounced inspection by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in Britain.
The inspection of Russell Hume’s Birmingham site, which took place on January 12, brought to light “instances of serious non-compliance with food hygiene regulations“, according to the UK authority.
Both the English agency and Food Standards Scotland proceeded to investigate all Russell Hume sites, and other locations where their product is stored, in England, Scotland and Wales.
According to the FSA, Russell Hume were “unable to demonstrate compliance” with food hygiene rules at its locations, so all products have been halted from leaving their sites “until the business can provide assurances that they are complying with the relevant legislation, and that they are producing safe food,” an agency spokesperson said.
We have also instructed Russell Hume to undertake a withdrawal of all affected product in the supply chain.
The spokesperson did add, however, that there is no indication currently that anyone has become ill as a result of eating meat supplied by the firm in question.
Nonetheless, it was highlighted that the agency was concerned about the poor practices in place at the company’s premises, resulting in the “proportionate action” taken. The authority is continuing to assess the situation.
All unused meat supplied by Russell Hume has been withdrawn from the businesses that they supply, until they can provide assurances.
It was noted that the company is co-operating with the investigation and is currently “reviewing its procedures and retraining its staff”.