Sweet Confectionery Ltd was fined tens of thousands of pounds after a dead rat and mouse poo were found by Enfield Council inspectors

A dead rat found at Sweet Confectionery Ltd (left) as well as mouse droppings (right) (credit Enfield Council)

A food manufacturer has been prosecuted by Enfield Council after inspectors discovered serious hygiene breaches including a dead rat, rodent droppings and pigeons roosting inside a food production area.

At Sweet Confectionery Ltd in Aden Road, Ponders End, environmental health officers from the council uncovered an uncontrolled rodent and pigeon infestation, “filthy conditions” and a failure to protect food from contamination during inspections that took place in January and February 2024.

Accumulations of dirt and food debris were discovered in the production and storage areas along with poor cleaning and disinfection practices to equipment, surfaces and food preparation areas were also found, along with gnaw marks in the wall insulation.

Officers issued an emergency closure notice due what it called “the imminent risk to public health”. Despite being allowed to reopen after improvements, the premises was forced to close again just days later after further signs of mice and inadequate cleaning were found.

The company was originally fined £72,000, which was reduced to £48,000 due to an early guilty plea. Following a partial appeal heard at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 28th May, the fine was reduced to £10,500. However, the court upheld the guilty verdict and confirmed the company must pay a £2,000 victim surcharge and £2,754 in costs to the council.

Susan Erbil, cabinet member for planning and regulatory services, said: “The council is supportive to local businesses and offers help and advice to local food related trades to comply with legislation.

“But unfortunately, not all related businesses follow the guidance provided to maintain acceptable standards of hygiene in food preparation and the cleanliness of their premises

“I was horrified to learn the extent of the lack of pest control measures at Sweet Confectionery Limited that were discovered by Enfield Council’s environmental health officers, and the fact the business had to be closed immediately due the dangers the premises posed to the health of consumers and the company’s employees.

“The fine imposed by the courts was not consummate with the seriousness of this case, but unfortunately this is out of the council’s control. The council will continue to protect public health with all measures possible.”

The company, trading under the brand name Nawal, manufactures sweets and desserts distributed to eight of its own retail shops across London and Slough.

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