‘Filthy and flaking’ Bradford food businesses given poor hygiene rating over ‘bacteria’ risk

Two food businesses operating from the same premises were given one-star food hygiene ratings and told to make improvements by a council inspector.

Harlem Shakes and Z’s Deli were handed the one-star rating after a Bradford Council inspector found dirty surfaces and equipment as well as potentially unsafe practices. The rating, which means that ‘major improvements’ are needed, was given following an inspection at the end of January.

Bradford Council’s Environmental Health department released copies of the hygiene reports and photos from inside the Manningham Lane premises following a Freedom of Information request.

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The business operators were told that the premises would benefit from a “full deep clean” including cleaning behind and under equipment. The inspector identified dirty equipment including a freezer, sink, fan, waffle machines and fryer, as well as ‘flaky’ paint and a lack of aprons.

The inspector noted frozen doner meat being defrosted at room temperature in between a hot plate and hot holding equipment. The report said: “Defrosting in the danger zone allows for multiplication or pathogenic bacteria.”

The inspector found that a hand basin was obstructed by cans of oil and old cardboard. The equipment sink did not have a supply of hot water, with a kettle being used to heat water for cleaning.

Areas needing attention included the seals around taps which were “deteriorating and filthy”. Fridge drawers and shelves were said to be dirty and with food spills.

The walls of the storage area, where bread buns were kept, were found to have flaking paint. The operator was told to repaint the walls so that the area can be kept clean and maintained.

The report for both businesses stated: “The number of food hygiene and structural issues indicate poor management and a lack of training.”

The one-star rating has been published on the Scores on the Doors website. The businesses could not be reached for comment.

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