In Lyon, the well-known caterer and pastry chef Pignol has had two of its shops shut down by the Rhône prefecture after a health inspection unearthed significant hygiene issues. The inspection found a considerable amount of mouse and rat droppings on packaging equipment that comes into contact with food products, as well as in production, storage, and sales areas, highlighting serious health risks associated with food contamination.

Pignol, a cornerstone of Lyon's culinary scene with about a dozen establishments across the city, is now facing scrutiny from health authorities and the public alike. The closure of the shops located in Bellecour square and Rue Émile-Zola points towards a wider problem regarding food safety and hygiene practices in the restaurant and catering industry, especially in a city acclaimed for its gastronomy.

The incident raises important questions about regulatory compliance and the enforcement of health standards in food businesses. As consumers become more aware and concerned about food safety, establishments like Pignol will need to address these issues promptly to restore public confidence and ensure compliance with health regulations, which are essential to protecting public health.