A Leyton-based wholesale food company has been slapped with a £25,000 fine after “filthy” conditions were found by inspectors.

Waltham Forest Council’s food safety officers found “serious failings” at Jumbo UK Ltd, based at Unit 6-9 Lea Valley Business Park, 2-3 Lammas Road, Leyton.

Officers found what they described as “filthy, unhygienic storage conditions” that could have endangered the health of customers when they visited the premises.

They immediately shut the premises when evidence of active pest infestations were spotted.

The case was heard at Thames Magistrates Court on Thursday July 25, where Jumbo UK and its directors Hassam and Chady Krayem entered guilty pleas.

Despite trying to claim the employee responsible for pest control at the store had left without notice, the court found the defendants wholly liable.

They were fined a total of £25,000, with an additional victim surcharge of £180 and costs of £1,000 awarded to the council.

Cllr Clyde Loakes, deputy leader and cabinet member for the environment, said: “There is no excuse for letting a food business become so filthy, so dirty, so pest-ridden that it poses an active risk to the health of customers.

“Pests including mice, rats, and cockroaches can contaminate food and spread diseases. Your reputation relies on keeping a close eye on your premises and making sure they are suitable to operate a food business. We will take action against those who do not meet these requirements.”

Consumers can report problems with food they have bought either from a store or restaurant by using the Food Standards Agency’s online reporting function.

You can also check the food hygiene rating of any restaurant, diner, or food business before you shop.