Mama Sheeryakh, an Afghan cuisine restaurant located at the junction of Ellesmere Road and Alum Rock Road in Alum Rock, Birmingham, was ordered to close immediately on June 24 after council inspectors discovered evidence of a mouse infestation, inadequate cleaning, and food exposed to potential contamination.
Immediate Closure and Legal Notice
Birmingham City Council issued a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice, forcing the premises to shut down without delay. The restaurant must meet several requirements before it can reopen to the public, including eradicating the mice, disposing of contaminated food, and conducting a thorough clean and disinfection of the entire premises and all equipment.
Inspectors' Findings
According to a council spokesperson, the routine food hygiene inspection revealed conditions posing an “imminent risk of injury to health.” Specific breaches included visible evidence of a mouse infestation, poor cleaning standards, and food being stored in a manner that risked contamination. The council emphasized that food safety is a top priority and pledged to work with the business to ensure all necessary improvements are made before any reopening.
Business Requirements for Reopening
The restaurant must implement effective pest-proofing measures to prevent future infestations, discard all contaminated food items, and carry out a deep clean of the entire establishment. The council will conduct follow-up inspections to verify compliance before lifting the prohibition notice.
Mama Sheeryakh had previously operated without major incident, but this incident highlights the importance of rigorous hygiene standards in food establishments. The closure serves as a reminder to all food businesses in Birmingham of the serious consequences of failing to maintain proper cleanliness and pest control.
