A fish and chip shop in St Blazey Gate, Par, Cornwall, faced a zero hygiene rating due to various issues found during an inspection. The inspectors discovered a container holding live maggots in a foul-smelling liquid, alongside spoiled chicken, and a significant fly infestation at Biscovey Fish Bar. The Food Standards Agency deemed urgent improvements necessary after the assessment conducted on July 23, highlighting concerns about the overall cleanliness and food hygiene standards at the establishment.
The management of the restaurant, who had recently taken over in March, expressed surprise at the alarming findings. They disclosed investing substantial funds into rectifying the identified deficiencies.
Cornwall Live obtained details of the inspection through a Freedom of Information Act request, revealing the presence of maggots that were promptly disposed of on-site. The investigation exposed additional issues such as decaying potatoes, flies in the kitchen area, improper food storage practices, and expired perishable items.
Further scrutiny uncovered unsanitary conditions beyond food handling, including structural deficiencies like lack of hot water in the staff facilities, inadequate cleaning practices, and physical disrepair within the premises.
Although initial assessments were concerning, subsequent visits on July 29 and September 4 revealed noticeable improvements in cleanliness and hygiene standards at the location.
In response to the inspection outcomes, the restaurant manager highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance the establishment since assuming ownership. Structural enhancements and repairs were prioritized, with the manager attributing some issues to pre-existing conditions before their tenure.
The manager elaborated on specific challenges faced, such as a leaking boiler causing maggot contamination, and clarified misunderstandings regarding the facility’s infrastructure and maintenance practices.
Assurances were given that substantial investments had been made to address deficiencies, including structural repairs and facility upgrades, aiming to elevate hygiene standards and overall operational quality.
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