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

This led FSA to investigate all Russell Hume sites, and other locations where its product is stored, in England, Scotland and Wales.

According to FSA, Russell Hume was unable to demonstrate compliance with food hygiene rules at its locations, so the agency 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. FSA has also instructed Russell Hume to undertake a withdrawal of all affected product in the supply chain.

FSA stated: “There is no indication that people have become ill from eating meat supplied by Russell Hume. However, we are concerned about the poor practices in place at their premises so that is why we have taken proportionate action to ensure no meat can leave their sites at present. We are continuing to assess the situation.”

Russell Hume distributes meat to a range of outlets, including hospitality and catering businesses, such as the JD Wetherspoon pub chain, and care homes and schools. All unused meat supplied by Russell Hume has been withdrawn from businesses until the supplier can provide assurances.

FSA has assured that Russell Hume is co-operating with its investigation and is currently reviewing its procedures and retraining its staff. The investigations are ongoing.

Food Management Today attempted to contact Russell Hume for comment without success.

*Picture is a stock steak image and is not a Russell Hume product.