Four arrested after 4.25t illegal meat seized in raid

The seizure of more than 4t of illegal meat in the West Midlands has highlighted the continuing threat food crime poses to consumer safety and livestock biosecurity.

Dudley Council and the Food Standards Agency’s National Food Crime Unit (NFCU), supported by West Midlands Police, HMRC and the Home Office, targeted an unapproved meat cutting plant in Dudley.

See also: Major illegal ‘smokies’ trader admits offences

During the operation, officers seized approximately 4.25t of illegal meat and arrested four men.

The local authority also implemented enforcement measures to tackle immediate food safety issues.

The NFCU has issued a Food Alert for Action and is working with local authorities to trace products linked to the seizure and remove them from the market.

Criminal investigation

Officers have also launched a criminal investigation after examining products and paperwork recovered during the raid.

Will Simpson, regional intelligence officer at the NFCU, said: “This operation forms part of the NFCU’s ongoing work to disrupt the illegal meat trade and we are working with local authorities to trace these products and clear them from shelves.

“Food businesses must do their due diligence on their suppliers to ensure they meet their legal responsibilities to sell food that’s safe and what it says it is.”

The Food Standards Agency warned that meat entering the food chain through unapproved premises bypasses mandatory hygiene and safety controls, increasing the risk of disease and contamination.

Dudley Council leader Patrick Harley said the sale of illegal meat bypasses the strict safety and hygiene standards that are in place to protect consumers, making enforcement action like this vital.

“This operation demonstrates the value of strong partnership working in protecting residents and maintaining confidence in the food supply chain,” he added.

Continuing concern

The latest seizure follows another high-profile NFCU investigation earlier this year, when 1.9t of Category 3 animal by-products, including whole chickens, lambs’ testicles and beef burgers, were discovered at an illegal meat cutting plant in London.

The case resulted in confiscation orders totalling £70,967 under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

The action comes amid continuing concern over illegal meat entering the UK.

In January, MPs on the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee warned that illegal imports pose a significant biosecurity risk to livestock farming after 34t of illegal meat was intercepted at the Port of Dover.