The owner of a food store in Hayes has been fined over £3,700 by Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court for not ensuring the traceability of food products. Jean Bitulu, located on Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, admitted to the offence after council officers discovered the head of an unidentified animal in the store’s freezer.
Council officials from Hillingdon visited John Foods at Hayes Shopping Centre on Coldharbour Lane for a routine inspection in July 2023. During the inspection, they found dried black smoked fish with mould, frozen grubs and insects, and the head of an unknown animal, later identified as that of an African bush pig – a product not allowed in the UK.
Bitulu claimed that he had no documentation for the items as they were brought into his shop by a woman in a suitcase who asked how much he would pay for them. The court also heard that he had received warnings about food hygiene in the past in 2021 and 2022.
In his defence, Bitulu stated that the items were for personal consumption and not for sale, and that the shop had already stopped trading. Despite this, Cllr Eddie Lavery, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, condemned the business for disregarding safety regulations meant to protect the public.
As a result of the case, Bitulu was fined £492, with a reduction for his early guilty plea. He was also required to pay a victim surcharge of £197 and the council’s prosecution costs amounting to £3,026.25.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety regulations and the consequences of not following them. It is crucial for businesses to comply with the law to ensure the well-being of consumers and maintain public health standards.
If you suspect any food-related crimes or violations, you can report them on the Hillingdon Council website at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/food-hygiene. It is essential for everyone to play their part in upholding food safety in our communities.
