Packets of meat that had been gnawed open and Walkers Sensations crisps that had been shredded by mice were among the grim discoveries made by public health inspectors in a pair of west London off-licences.
The shops in Harrow had “major infestations” with rodents and council workers had no choice but to shut them both down immediately, a Harrow Council spokesman said.
Peri Peri Original in Station Road had rats, while shelves, floors and packets of food at Best Foods in Rayners Lane were covered in mouse droppings.
Mice had also broken into vacuum-packed burgers and Walkers crisps and chewed the contents.
Cllr Graham Henson said: “These are serious and concerning cases.
“Rats and mice carry diseases that pose a serious risk to public health. These two food outlets had no thought about the serious implications this could have on their customers.
“What’s more concerning is that despite a previous visit, Best Foods continued to operate with a mice infestation.”
Wadir Hussain, owner of Peri Peri Original, claimed he had taken action after a pest control report and told Willesden magistrates there was no threat to public health, the council added.
But “no effective steps” had actually been taken to pest-proof the shop and he was ordered to pay £1,735.
Vaani Cash and Carry, owners of Best Foods, was ordered to pay £1,560.
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