Further Arrest Made in Wales in FSA Food Crime Investigation

A recent arrest in Wales is part of an ongoing investigation by the Food Standards Agency’s (FSA) National Food Crime Unit (NFCU) into illegal and unsafe meat, with concerns focusing on a potentially hazardous practice known as the production of “smokies.”

On Wednesday, December 4, 2024, officers from the NFCU, alongside Dyfed-Powys Police, executed a search at a farm in West Wales. They arrested a 52-year-old man in connection with the investigation into the supply of unfit meat. This arrest comes after a series of earlier actions, including five arrests in London on November 25, 2024, when suspected illegal meat was seized. The man arrested in Wales was interviewed by the NFCU but has since been released under investigation as inquiries continue.

The investigation is part of a wider probe into the illegal production and sale of unsafe meat, specifically “smokies.” Smokies are sheep carcasses that are often sold with their skin still attached and without proper traceability, which poses significant food safety concerns. According to the FSA, the production of smokies is illegal because it typically occurs in unsanitary conditions, increasing the risk of contamination. These meats are not produced under the stringent hygienic standards required for legitimate food products, making them a potential public health hazard.

Neil Castle, Deputy Head of the FSA’s NFCU, emphasized the agency’s commitment to protecting consumers from unsafe food. “We are advising people to steer clear of sheep meat produced in this way, as it may present a health risk. The lack of traceability makes it difficult to ensure the meat has been properly handled or inspected,” Castle stated. He further urged the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to food crime to the Food Crime Confidential service, which is available via the Food Standards Agency website or by calling 0800 028 1180.

The recent arrest and ongoing investigation highlight the FSA’s increasing focus on tackling food crime, particularly in cases where unregulated, potentially dangerous meat products are being sold. If the NFCU finds evidence of unsafe food being sold, they are committed to taking swift action to safeguard public health.

The FSA continues to encourage the public to report any concerns they may have about unsafe food or suspicious activities. The agency also works closely with local authorities, such as Trading Standards, to investigate and address food-related crimes. As the investigation in Wales unfolds, the FSA remains vigilant in ensuring that food sold to consumers is safe, traceable, and produced under the necessary safety standards.

Consumers are advised to remain cautious and to avoid purchasing meat products that do not meet safety regulations, particularly those sold without proper documentation or traceability. The ongoing investigation serves as a reminder of the vital role the public plays in preventing food crime and protecting food safety.