Action taken at meat business

Following an unannounced inspection of Russell Hume’s Birmingham site by the Food Standards Agency on 12 January, we became aware of instances of serious non-compliance with food hygiene regulations.

This has led the Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland to investigate all Russell Hume sites, and other locations where their product is stored, in England, Scotland and Wales. Russell Hume were unable to demonstrate compliance with food hygiene rules at its locations, so we have stopped any product 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. We have also instructed Russell Hume to undertake a withdrawal of all affected product in the supply chain.

There is no indication that people have become ill from eating meat supplied by Russell Hume. However, we are concerned about the poor practices in place at their premises so that is why we have taken proportionate action to ensure no meat can leave their sites at present. We are continuing to assess the situation.

Distribution of meat from Russell Hume is to a range of outlets, including hospitality and catering businesses, and care homes and schools. All unused meat supplied by Russell Hume has been withdrawn from the businesses that they supply until they can provide assurances . The company is co-operating with our investigation and is currently reviewing its procedures and retraining its staff.

Our investigations are ongoing.