A shop was fined £10,000 after mouse droppings were found on food items during a routine inspection. 

In June last year an inspection of Abiglobal Foods Wholesale Ltd in River Road, Barking, revealed serious food safety breaches. 

Inspectors from Barking and Dagenham Council’s environmental health team found evidence of a significant rodent infestation, with mouse droppings found throughout the premises and on food items. 

The business had also failed to meet pest-proofing requirements, with numerous gaps and cracks identified in external doors, windows and walls. 

The condition of the floor coverings was also deemed inadequate, the council said, and the hand wash basin was not properly connected to the drainage system. 

The business voluntarily stopped operating for a week until all necessary remedial actions were taken. 

Dirty floors and walls at the premisesDirty floors and walls at the premises (Image: Barking and Dagenham Council)

At Romford Magistrates’ Court on November 7 the company was fined £10,000, told to pay £2,869 costs and a £2,000 victim surcharge. 

The director - Abigail Ronke Thomas – was fined £400. 

The company and Ms Thomas had pleaded guilty to four charges of breaching food safety and hygiene standards. 

Councillor Syed Ghani, cabinet member for enforcement and community safety said: “We take food safety and hygiene standards very seriously, and it is essential that all food businesses adhere to the strict regulations in place to protect public health. 

“The serious nature of the violations found at Abiglobal Foods Wholesale Ltd led to immediate action to ensure the premises posed no further risk. The court's decision sends a clear message that such breaches will not be tolerated.” 

The council said it continues to monitor the business closely.