Food crime officers and police intercepted the meat before it could reach the human food chain
Officers say the meat failed to meet hygiene standards(Image: Supplied)
More than 150 kilograms of “unidentified” illegal meat has been stopped from ending up on dinner plates after an enforcement raid in Leicester.
The raid, which had targeted the online sale of illegal ‘smokies’, which are produced by singeing the fleece off unskinned sheep or goat carcasses, giving the meat a golden-brown colour and distinctive taste.
The process is illegal in the UK, as it fails to meet the hygiene standards required for food preparation, and may involve slaughter methods that breach animal welfare law.
The Food Standards Agency’s (FSA) National Food Crime Unit (NFCU) led the multi-agency operation alongside Leicestershire Police and saw officers remove and safely dispose of 158kg of meat during the operation.
A 38-year-old man was arrested during the operation and the man has since been released under investigation while enquiries continue.
Neil Castle, deputy head at 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.
“Smokies made in the traditional way may have food safety risks and may involve slaughter methods that don’t meet animal welfare legislation. If you suspect that smokie meat is being sold, contact your local trading standards.”
Anyone who suspects smokie selling or food crime can report it to Food Crime Confidential at gov.uk/food-crime/report, or by calling 0800 028 1180.
