An inspection report detailing hygiene concerns at Lucky Star, a Chinese restaurant located on Trafalgar Street in Brighton, has been made public following a Freedom of Information request by The Argus. The restaurant received a one-star rating from the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, indicating that major improvements are necessary.

The inspection conducted on September 11, 2024, uncovered multiple hygiene issues, including mould in the ice machine, food stored outside, and a blocked hand sink cluttered with pots and pans. An open bottle of bleach was also discovered alongside food containers, raising significant concerns regarding proper food safety practices. According to the inspector’s report, the food hygiene awareness among the staff was deemed “inadequate.”

In the report, it was noted: “I refer to my inspection of your premises… and to the discussions held with the owner when a note of my key findings was left on site.” In addition to the previously mentioned issues, the report highlighted a lack of two-step cleaning and disinfection, as well as uncovered food in fridges and freezers—factors contributing to the low rating. The use of cardboard boxes for storing prawn crackers was noted specifically, as these are not permitted due to the potential for harbouring bacteria and difficulty in cleaning.

The inspection further revealed that food items such as potatoes and onions were being improperly stored outside, increasing the risk of contamination. Deteriorated food containers were also found on the premises, alongside criticisms of the overall cleanliness and structure of the restaurant, which included mould-damaged walls and ceilings, torn kitchen flooring, and dirty pipes.

Another significant concern raised in the report was inadequate knowledge and risk assessment of allergens, with noted risks of cross-contamination in the kitchen. The inspector recommended that the restaurant refrain from serving customers with allergies until these issues were rectified. Furthermore, it was reported that the training provided to the staff on food hygiene practices was insufficient. The inspector stated: “It was apparent from my inspection that the level of food hygiene awareness amongst your staff was inadequate.”

In a broader context, a separate report from The Guardian revealed that various restaurants and bars in Whitehall, including those within government buildings, have also faced serious hygiene violations in recent years. Noteworthy examples include a 2022 inspection of a Ministry of Defence restaurant which received a similar one-star rating. The inspector cited a severe mouse infestation and poor maintenance of cleaning as contributing factors to a significant risk of food contamination.

In total, multiple facilities associated with the House of Commons reported ongoing issues with pests, including mouse droppings found in various areas, and in some cases, immediate action was demanded to address these concerns. The health inspections, disclosed under the Freedom of Information Act, highlighted that despite reported improvements, many establishments previously faced serious hygiene issues.

Responses from the affected establishments indicate that measures are now in place to ensure food safety and hygiene. A House of Commons spokesperson assured that robust food safety processes have been implemented, stating: “If issues are identified, we act quickly to address them.” Meanwhile, a Lord’s spokesperson affirmed the existence of a “robust food safety management system.”

As the inspection findings for Lucky Star and other establishments illustrate, local authorities remain responsible for ensuring compliance with food hygiene laws, conducting inspections at intervals that can be as short as five years, or more frequently if warranted. They have the authority to enforce necessary actions, from requiring improvements to closure or prosecution, depending on the severity of the issues identified.

Source: Noah Wire Services