Zaiqa Catering Birmingham Limited, operating Handi Roti on Hob Moor Road, has been fined £14,500 after health inspectors discovered a dead mouse and widespread rodent droppings across the premises. The company and its director, Muhammad Bilal Malik, each pleaded guilty to four charges under the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013.
Inspection Reveals Severe Hygiene Breaches
Birmingham Magistrates Court heard that during a routine inspection in May 2025, environmental health officers found mice droppings on floors, trays, and shelves. The premises were described as being in a "dirty and unhygienic" condition. Michelle Brown, prosecuting for Birmingham City Council, stated that the business had previously received the lowest one-star food hygiene rating, indicating major improvement necessary.
The immediate risk to public health due to vermin led to the takeaway being shut down on the day of the inspection. Officers determined that the contamination posed an imminent threat to customers.
Company and Director Penalised
Zaiqa Catering Birmingham Limited was fined £10,000, with additional surcharges and costs bringing the total to £14,500. Director Muhammad Bilal Malik received a 12-month conditional discharge. Malik, who started the small business two years ago, apologised in court: "I have pleaded guilty but I have worked a lot on the shop and spent a lot of money (to make improvements)."
Following enforcement action, the company undertook substantial remedial works, including pest control and deep cleaning. The premises were allowed to reopen after four days once the health risk was eliminated.
Council Emphasises Food Safety Standards
Birmingham City Council's environmental health team highlighted the importance of maintaining high hygiene standards in food businesses. The case underscores the legal obligations of food operators to ensure premises are free from pests and kept in a clean condition to protect public health.
The court's decision sends a clear message that breaches of food hygiene regulations will be met with significant penalties, including substantial fines and potential closure.
