Rat droppings found inside Bombay Munch Pic: Hackney Council

A Dalston takeaway has been shut down due to a rat infestation, among other health concerns.

Bombay Munch on Shacklewell Lane was closed after Stratford Magistrates Court granted permission to the Council on April 15.

Hackney Environmental Health officers, tipped off by a member of the public, inspected the Indian takeaway. They were “overwhelmed” by the smell of rat urine which they found on food containers as well as fresh droppings in a room where food is stored and prepared.

The staff had set a single rattrap in a bid to control the infestation.

A Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice (HEPN under the Food Safety and Hygiene Regulations 2013) was issued to the food business operator, Dalston Limited, stating the business was to be immediately closed.

Cathy Gallagher, Assistant Director of Planning and Regulatory Services, said: “It is unacceptable for food premises to disregard their duty to protect the health and welfare of customers.

“We would like to encourage people to come forward and report bad food hygiene practices in order for us to investigate and take necessary action.”

The takeaway will remain closed until the work stated by the Environmental Health officers is completed to a satisfactory level and they receive a certificate allowing them to resume trade.