Food safety inspectors discovered serious hygiene problems at Pizza Plus, a takeaway in Wallasey. The establishment received a hygiene rating of zero after an inspection on July 18.
The takeaway scored poorly under the National Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, receiving 25 points for hygiene, 10 points for structure, and 30 points for confidence in management. The best possible score is zero, while the worst is 25 for hygiene and 30 for management.
A Freedom of Information request to Wirral Council revealed that many of the issues noted during this inspection had been previously reported. Inspectors found that pizza toppings were not being refrigerated, and donner meat was improperly stored in a bain-marie for extended periods. Additionally, staff were not wearing suitable clothing, such as aprons.
During the inspection, when asked about preparing a gluten-free pineapple pizza, staff failed to mention handwashing. They also used contaminated ingredients from the saladette. The report stated, “Until all of your staff are trained to work safely, especially when unsupervised, you cannot avoid cross-contamination. You should inform your customers that you cannot provide an allergen-free dish.”
Several pieces of equipment were found to be unclean. A food mixer used for milkshakes contained black sludge and emitted a foul odor. Other issues included dirty shelves in the raw meat fridge and flour bins that were unclean, particularly at contact points.
The report noted, “Wall floor junctions throughout the premises required cleaning to remove ingrained dirt from the sealant. Lower-level cleaning was needed for the walls and pipework throughout the kitchen, which were greasy and required more detailed cleaning.”
Additionally, several hygiene-related paperwork items had not been completed for months, and three new staff members lacked proper training. Management was criticized for using turkey or chicken ham without disclosing it on the menu. They also used genetically modified sources without clear indication.
The report concluded, “This inspection has identified that you have continued to fail to comply with the requirements set out in the notice. As such, I will now be moving forward with further formal action.”
Pizza Plus has been contacted for a response.
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