THE operator of a Hayes food store has been ordered to pay more than £3,700 after council officers found the head of an unidentifiable animal in its freezer. 

Jean Bitulu, of Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, appeared at Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (10) when he admitted failing to ensure the traceability of food products. 

An environmental health officer and a food safety officer from Hillingdon Council visited John Foods, Hayes Shopping Centre, Coldharbour Lane, unannounced in July 2023 to carry out a routine inspection, the court heard. 

They found dried black smoked fish with mould in a chest freezer, frozen grubs and insects, as well as the head of an unknown animal, later forensically identified as that of an African bush pig. It is a product not permitted in the UK. 

Bitulu said there was no documentation because a lady had walked into his shop with the items in a suitcase and asked how much he wanted to buy. 

He had been given previous food hygiene warnings in 2021 and 2022, the court heard. 

In defence, the court was told the items were for personal consumption and not for sale and that the shop had since ceased trading. 

Cllr Eddie Lavery, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, said: “This is a shocking example of a local business flouting regulations which are in place to keep everybody safe.”

Bitulu was fined £492, reduced for his early guilty plea, and was further ordered to pay victim surcharge of £197 and the council’s prosecution costs of £3,026.25. 

To report suspected food crime, go to www.hillingdon.gov.uk/food-hygiene