Three abattoirs supplied by livestock farmers across Pembrokeshire are under investigation after an undercover operation revealed faecal contamination on meat.
Cig Calon Cymru, run by Enzo Sauro in Cross Hands, Dunbia in Llanybydder, and HMD, a family run abattoir in Swansea, have come under the spotlight after BBC journalists secretly filmed alongside meat hygiene inspectors and discovered approved carcasses were affected.
While there is no suggestion that the meat reached the public, three supermarkets have launched inquiries. It has also led to a call for an investigation into how the Meat Hygiene Service (MHS) polices the industry.
Cig Calon Cymru supplies retailers including Somerfield and Marks and Spencer. Meat contaminated with faeces was found in the company’s cutting room.
The firm’s owner, Enzo Sauro, insisted that since the business began operating in August 2005 it had consistently met all the standards required by regulators, including stringent hygiene regulations.
“We are confident that we comply with all regulatory requirements and adhere to best practice at all times,” said Mr Sauro.
There is no evidence to suggest that contaminated meat from Cig Calon Cymru’s abattoir has been sold by M&S or Somerfield.
At Dunbia, which sources large quantities of lamb from Pembrokeshire to supply Sainsburys, a journalist filmed a number of health marked carcasses still contaminated with faeces.
In a statement, the firm insisted it always strived to achieve high standards and was unaware of any current or past instances when MHS procedures were not followed.
The company added that its last MHS audit found ‘satisfactory performance’ in all areas of the plant.
Again, there was no suggestion that contaminated meat was passed to customers by Sainsburys. The retailer is conducting an inquiry into the allegations and said it works closely with suppliers to achieve the highest standards in food safety and quality.
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