Russell Hume in food hygiene scandal

Following an unannounced inspection of Russell Hume’s Birmingham site on 12 January, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) became aware of instances of serious non-compliance with food hygiene regulations.

This has led the FSA and Food Standards Scotland to investigate all Russell Hume sites, and other locations where their product is stored, in England, Scotland and Wales. Russell Hume were unable to demonstrate compliance with food hygiene rules at its locations, so the FSA has stopped any product from leaving its sites until the business can provide assurances that it is complying with the relevant legislation, and that it is producing safe food.

The FSA has also instructed Russell Hume to undertake a withdrawal of all affected product in the supply chain. The firm supplies Wetherspoons, Marston’s, care homes and schools.

There is no indication that people have become ill from eating meat supplied by Russell Hume. However, the FSA is concerned about the poor practices in place at the premises so that is why it has taken proportionate action to ensure no meat can leave the sites at present. The FSA is continuing to assess the situation.

Distribution of meat from Russell Hume is to a range of outlets, including hospitality and catering businesses, and care homes and schools. All unused meat supplied by Russell Hume has been withdrawn from the businesses that it supplies until it can provide assurances. The company is co-operating with the investigation and is currently reviewing its procedures and retraining its staff.