158kg of illegal meat seized in ‘smokies’ operation
© FSA A 38-year-old man has been arrested following a multi-agency operation targeting the alleged illegal online sale of “smokies” in Leicester.
The operation was led by the Food Standards Agency’s (FSA) National Food Crime Unit (NFCU), working alongside Leicestershire Police, the East Midlands Special Operations Unit’s Disruption Team and the local authority.
See also: Four arrested after 4.25t illegal meat seized in raid
The Leicester-based man has since been released under investigation while enquiries continue into offences uncovered during the operation.
Officers removed and oversaw the safe disposal of 158kg of unidentified meat during the co-ordinated enforcement action.
Smokies are skin-on sheep or goatmeat produced by singeing the fleece from an unskinned carcass, giving the meat its characteristic golden-brown colour and distinctive taste.
Their production is illegal in the UK because smokies do not comply with the required hygiene standards and legal requirements governing meat and food preparation.
Neil Castle, deputy head of the FSA’s NFCU, said: “The NFCU, in partnership with police and council officers, has been investigating food safety offences and the alleged online selling of smokies.
“By working closely with our partners, we were able to remove and oversee the safe disposal of 158kg of unidentified meat from the human food chain.”
He warned that traditionally produced smokies could pose food safety and animal welfare risks.
“Smokies made in the traditional way may have food safety risks and may involve slaughter methods that don’t meet animal welfare legislation,” Mr Castle said.
Reporting food crime
The FSA said anyone who suspects smokie meat is being sold should contact their local trading standards service.
Suspected food crime can also be reported confidentially to the FSA’s National Food Crime Unit online or by freephone to 0800 028 1180.
The operation comes as authorities continue efforts to tackle illegal food production and sales, particularly where products are being offered through online platforms.