Market stalls closed after inspections

TWO German market traders were shut down temporarily and around 20 other Christmas food stalls in Birmingham told to improve by hygiene inspectors.

Birmingham City Council environmental health officials visited more than 70 ‘high-risk’ vendors – selling cooked or open food – throughout the city centre’s three main Christmas events, the Frankfurt Market, Cathedral Market and City Social at the Mailbox.

While most traders passed the inspection, there were a number who were not up to standard, including some that failed.

In the Frankfurt Market in New Street and Victoria Square two stalls failed were ordered to cease operating immediately due to a lack of allergen advice on display.

Six vendors required minor improvements relating to hand-washing facilities, temperature control and pest prevention measures.

The rest of the 50 stalls all passed. The council confirmed all issues were rectified and all traders were up to standard when inspectors returned on November 20.

A spokesman for the Frankfurt market organisers said: “We welcome the inspections by environmental health and their suggestions as to how we can further improve our processes and reflect changing practice in order to offer the highest possible standards to our visitors.

“In the area of allergen information, where businesses across the UK are currently reviewing their information following recent well-publicised cases, we particularly welcome the guidance given in order to meet the latest standards of best practice. Nothing is more important to us than the wellbeing and enjoyment of our visitors.”