Posted on: Wednesday 1 May 2024
A Pontypool restaurant has been prosecuted for failing to clearly display their food hygiene rating.
Following an inspection by a Council Environmental Health Officer in June 2023, The Muddy Toad in Pontypool, was issued with a food hygiene rating of 1, indicating that major improvement was needed.
A re-inspection in August 2023, found that the business’ food hygiene rating sticker was being obscured from view by potted plants. It is the law for food businesses to display their hygiene rating in a clearly visible place to allow consumers to make informed choices about where to eat or shop for food.
The food business owner, Mr. Gough of Hospitality and Investments Ltd, was reminded of the requirements and asked to remove the potted plants. However, when officers returned a few days later, the plants were once again obscuring the hygiene rating sticker. This led to a £200 Fixed Penalty Notice being issued to Mr Gough, who chose not to pay.
Mr Gough pleaded guilty in court to failing to display a valid food hygiene rating sticker and was fined £200. He was also ordered to contribute £146.40 towards the Council’s costs and pay a victim surcharge of £80.
Councillor Mandy Owen, Executive Member for Environment said: “The law requiring the display of valid food hygiene rating stickers is intended to provide consumers with clear information about the food hygiene standards in food businesses.
“Ratings allow residents and visitors to Torfaen to make an informed choice as to where they purchase their food.
“Our officers are keen to work with local businesses to maintain and improve food hygiene standards, the large majority of which clearly display their rating stickers.
“This prosecution could have been avoided if the owner clearly displayed their valid rating sticker.
“They could have also paid the Fixed Penalty Notice, rather than having to face paying £426.40.”
Find out business food hygiene ratings in Torfaen here
To find out more about food hygiene contact Torfaen Business Direct on 01633 648735 or businessdirect@torfaen.gov.uk
ENDS
Notes to editor
The Muddy Toad was re-inspected on the 18 August 2023 and now has a 4 (Good) food hygiene rating.