Following an unannounced inspection of Russell Hume’s Birmingham site on the 12th January, the FSA have become aware of instances of serious non-compliance with food hygiene regulations.

The meat firm supplies Wetherspoon,Greene King,Marston’s pubs,Jamie Oliver’s restaurants as well as schools and care homes.

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This has led to further investigation of all Russell Hume sites, and other locations where their product is stored, in England, Scotland and Wales. Russell Hume were unable to demonstrate compliance with food hygiene rules at its locations, so the FSA have stopped any product from leaving their sites until the business can provide assurances that they are complying with the relevant legislation, and that they are producing safe food. The FSA have also instructed Russell Hume to undertake a withdrawal of all affected product in the supply chain.

FSA SAY: "There is no indication that people have become ill from eating meat supplied by Russell Hume. However, we are concerned about the poor practices in place at their premises so that is why we have taken proportionate action to ensure no meat can leave their sites at present. we are continuing to assess the situation".

Distribution of meat from Russell Hume is to a range of outlets, including hospitality and catering businesses, and care homes and schools. All unused meat supplied by Russell Hume has been withdrawn from the businesses that they supply until they can provide assurances. The company is co-operating with our investigation and is currently reviewing its procedures and retraining its staff.

The Food Standards Agency has urged restaurants and other customers with unused meat provided by Russell Hume to dispose of it.

Russell Hume said the recall was a "precautionary measure because of mislabelling".