The Mexicano Food Box, a kebab shop in Preston, Lancashire, was thrust into the spotlight after a horrifying discovery by health inspectors: a deep-fried rat in the kitchen. This shocking find, made in September, exposed a catalogue of hygiene violations that disgusted customers and resulted in the establishment receiving the lowest possible hygiene rating of zero. The image of the seemingly flattened and crisped rodent, captured by a food hygiene officer, starkly contrasted with the restaurant’s online claims of offering “mouth-watering dishes and catering for all kinds of different tastes.” The revelation forced the eatery to voluntarily close its doors for a thorough cleaning and pest control measures.
The council’s inspection report painted a grim picture of the kitchen’s state. Beyond the infamous rodent, inspectors documented a cockroach infestation, widespread dirt, and a concerning lack of basic hygiene practices. The report highlighted a lack of food protection from contamination, exemplified by bread buns stored dangerously close to raw doner kebab meat, a practice that risks cross-contamination. Refrigeration temperatures also posed a significant health hazard, with dairy products stored at 5°C above the legal maximum of 8°C, creating a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Adding to the list of offences, inspectors noted the absence of soap in the restaurant’s toilets, a fundamental requirement for any food establishment.
The severity of the hygiene breaches prompted the council to issue a stern warning to the Mexicano Food Box owners. The notice stressed the urgent need for improvements and cautioned that future inspections revealing similar conditions could result in formal legal action. The council emphasized the importance of maintaining minimum hygiene standards, highlighting their authority to seize food, equipment, and even shut down premises in extreme cases of non-compliance. This firm stance underscored the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences for businesses failing to prioritize food safety.
Ironically, prior to the inspection, the Mexicano Food Box had enjoyed relatively positive online reviews, boasting a 4.2-star rating and comments praising the food as “excellent” and “great.” This discrepancy between public perception and the reality of the kitchen’s condition raises questions about the effectiveness of online review systems in accurately reflecting hygiene standards. However, at least one online review hinted at potential issues, with a customer reporting feeling unwell after consuming a takeaway meal. This isolated complaint, while not indicative of the widespread problems uncovered by the inspection, serves as a reminder that customer feedback can sometimes offer early warning signs.
The deep-fried rat incident at Mexicano Food Box serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust food hygiene practices. The case highlights the critical role of local councils in enforcing these standards and protecting public health. Regular inspections, coupled with swift action against non-compliant establishments, are vital in preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring consumer safety. The incident also underscores the need for transparency and accountability within the food industry, encouraging businesses to prioritize hygiene and maintain open communication with customers.
The voluntary closure of the Mexicano Food Box provides an opportunity for the owners to address the serious hygiene deficiencies and implement effective pest control measures. The true test will lie in their ability to demonstrate a sustained commitment to improved hygiene practices during future inspections. The council’s vigilance will be crucial in ensuring that the necessary changes are implemented and maintained, ultimately restoring public trust and preventing future incidents of this nature. The incident serves as a cautionary tale for other food establishments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high hygiene standards not only to comply with regulations but also to protect their reputation and ensure the well-being of their customers.
