A Subway branch on Stratford Road in Sparkbrook, Birmingham, has been ordered to close after a routine inspection by Birmingham City Council environmental health officers uncovered extensive evidence of mouse activity, including droppings and a live rodent. The takeaway, operated by SLK Foods, was deemed an imminent risk to public health, leading to a hygiene emergency prohibition order granted by Birmingham Magistrates Court on Thursday, July 30.
Inspection Reveals Widespread Contamination
Environmental health officer Kiran Bola conducted the inspection on Tuesday, July 28. Upon opening a drawer beneath the drinks dispenser, she detected a strong odor of mouse droppings and urine. Further examination revealed droppings behind equipment in food preparation areas, on shelving units, next to electrical sockets, on boxes containing food, behind chiller units, and in the store room. Additionally, a live mouse was observed in a bin, and gaps in the door were identified as potential entry points for rodents.
Legal Action and Public Health Concerns
The hygiene emergency prohibition order effectively closes the premises until conditions set by the council are met. Bola served a hygiene prohibition notice along with a schedule of works detailing the necessary actions to address mouse activity, lack of effective cleaning, and food contamination risks. She emphasized the dangers, stating, “Rodents can contaminate food, surfaces and equipment through their urine, droppings, fur and saliva and lead to salmonella.”
Business Response and Next Steps
Bola reported that the owners of SLK Foods indicated they were not yet ready to comply with the schedule of works. She planned to revisit the premises on July 30 to reassess. “If they are ready, they will reopen. If they are not, they will remain closed,” she said. The council continues to monitor the situation to ensure public safety.
This incident underscores the importance of rigorous food safety standards. Birmingham City Council has a zero-tolerance policy for such breaches, and residents are encouraged to report concerns about food hygiene to environmental health services.
