Rat droppings and mouldy liver pate lands pub zero hygiene rating

Licensees have been warned it is an offence to sell food unfit for human consumption after West Oxfordshire District Council hit Greene King pub the Black Horse, Standlake with the rating. 

Most of the food at the venue had no use by date, and there was evidence of a lack of cleaning which created a very poor hygienic condition, the report explained.

There was also evidence of rats outside the building, raising the likelihood of them entering through holes in the kitchen and cellar.

No confidence

Managers were ordered to introduce monitoring for stock rotation to ensure mouldy food was thrown out, but inspectors report ‘no confidence’ in the venue turning its standards around.

The report explained: "Evidence of pests – rat droppings and rat runs – were found in the outside shed and garden area.

"Appropriate treatment methods must be used to eliminate these pests.

"Mouldy food, namely liver pate, was found on the premises.

Offence

 "It is an offence to sell food that is unfit for human consumption and all food on the premises is deemed to be for sale unless it is clearly marked as being unfit.

"The majority of food had no use by date therefore you are unable to demonstrate that food is safe to eat."

"There was a general lack of cleaning throughout the premises, hampered by lack of organisation and accumulations of dirt, food debris and non-food items."

The pub was ordered to ensure better cleanliness throughout, to carry out repair works and for the manager to take food safety training.

The PMA ​is awaiting a response from Greene King.