Dirt in the candy storage – cat took care of the rats
A candy wholesaler in Malmö was banned from selling food due to unsanitary conditions and expired goods, with a cat reportedly placed to deter rodents.
A recent inspection by the environmental administration in Malmö revealed alarming conditions at a candy wholesaler's storage facility, including over five tons of expired candy. The facility was found to be filthy and lacking secure doors, allowing a significant risk of pests entering the premises. To make matters worse, it was noted that a cat had been placed on-site as a makeshift guard against mice and rats, indicating the severity of the infestation problem.
During the inspection, officials discovered a significant stash of repackaged and unlabeled candy, raising serious food safety concerns. The authorities found ten pallets of boxes containing candy that had passed their expiration dates. Moreover, the environment officials noted that the wholesaler had failed to comply with regulations regarding food storage and repackaging, which further justified their decision to prohibit the sale of food from the facility.
The discovery has raised awareness about food safety regulations in Sweden and the responsibilities of wholesalers and retailers to ensure that the food they provide is safe for consumption. The incident highlights the critical need for regular inspections and enforcement of health standards in food storage facilities to protect public health. The use of a cat as a pest deterrent instead of proper sanitary practices has drawn criticism and underscores the importance of maintaining hygienic conditions in food supply chains.