CIEH responds after B&M Retail Ltd fined £2m for serious food hygiene failings linked to mice infestations

In response to Birmingham City Council’s successful prosecution of B&M Retail Ltd, which resulted in a £2 million fine following serious food hygiene failings linked to pest activity at three Birmingham stores, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) is reminding businesses of all sizes that robust hygiene controls, pest prevention measures and well-trained staff are essential to protecting public health.

Food Safety Manager Claire Lucas, from the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, said: “This case highlights the potentially serious consequences when food hygiene standards are not maintained, and pest control measures fail.

“Regardless of whether a business operates a single premises or hundreds of sites across the country, there is a responsibility to ensure food is stored, handled and sold in a way that protects customers from harm.

“Effective cleaning procedures, thorough staff training and strong management oversight should be fundamental parts of running any food business. Businesses must ensure employees understand the signs of pest activity, know how to report concerns promptly and are supported by clear procedures that are consistently followed.

“Effective pest control plays an important role in protecting food supplies and helping businesses avoid costs that can ultimately be passed on to consumers at a time of cost-of-living pressures.

“For larger organisations in particular, maintaining standards across an entire estate can be challenging, but this case demonstrates why robust governance, regular auditing and consistent operating procedures are so important. Systems must be in place to identify risks early, address issues quickly and ensure standards are being met at every location.

“Well done to the Environmental Health team at Birmingham City Council for their strong and swift action to protect their communities from harm.”

Natalie Bungay, Head of Technical at British Pest Control Association (BPCA), said: “Pest management plays an important role in protecting public health, particularly in places where food is stored, handled or sold.

“Rodents can contaminate food and surfaces, damage stock and create risks for customers and staff. Regular inspections, good hygiene, effective proofing and prompt action when signs of activity are found all help reduce those risks.

“Professional pest management works best when it is part of everyday site management, with pest controllers, cleaning teams, maintenance staff and managers all working together.”

Read more about the prosecution by Birmingham City Council here.