Salford City Council has successfully prosecuted Nowroz Limited, the former operator of Golden Fried Chicken, for failing to have adequate pest control procedures. The food business, located at 601 Cheetham Hill Road, Salford, M8 5EJ, came under investigation following a complaint received by the Environmental Health Team. During a food hygiene inspection conducted on 1 November 2023, Environmental Health Officers discovered mouse droppings in areas used for food preparation, handling, and storage on the premises. Additionally, several potential pest entry points were identified, posing a risk of contamination of food and food contact surfaces. Despite having a pest contractor, the food business needed to implement the necessary actions and records for effective pest control. This is not the first time Golden Fried Chicken has encountered issues with pests. In the past, Environmental Health Officers had identified areas needing pest-proofing during inspections. Previously, Mr Salar Bahjat, the sole Director of Nowroz Limited, signed a Simple Caution in August 2020, admitting to failure to implement adequate pest control procedures. Following the investigation in November 2023, Salford City Council temporarily prohibited the use of the food business until appropriate pest treatment, pest-proofing work, and cleaning were done. An Environmental Health Officer lifted this Voluntary Prohibition on 3 November 2023 after completing the necessary tasks. At a court hearing on January 11 ,2024, Salar Bahjat, with the assistance of a Kurdish interpreter, pled guilty on behalf of Nowroz Limited to the charges brought against the company. The court imposed a fine of £312 on Salar Bahjat, along with £1000 in costs and £125 in victim surcharge. Nowroz Limited received a fine of £1000 and a £400 Victim Surcharge without additional costs Salford City Council remains committed to ensuring the health and safety of its residents by enforcing and upholding strict food hygiene standards. Environmental Health Officers will continue to conduct routine inspections of food businesses within the city, taking necessary action against those in breach of regulations Councillor Barbara Bentham, Lead Member for Environment, Neighbourhoods, Sports and Leisure, said: "It is crucial that food businesses prioritise the safety and wellbeing of their customers by adhering to the necessary hygiene standards. We will not tolerate businesses that fail to implement adequate pest control measures. This prosecution serves as a reminder to all food business operators to strictly comply with the regulations and maintain the highest hygiene standards."
