Adelaide sushi retailer facing prosecution over dirty store

An Adelaide sushi store is being prosecuted for more than 50 breaches of national food standards.

It has been accused of having dirty premises and failing to store raw meat in a temperature-controlled environment.

The Eastern Health Authority is prosecuting Li & Ming Pty Ltd, which is proprietor of the Cherry Blossom sushi bar in Gorge Road at Newton, in Adelaide's north-eastern suburbs.

The sushi bar is facing a total of 54 counts of failure to comply with the Australian food standards code.

Court documents obtained by the ABC allege the premises were unhygienic and food items including raw meat, vinegar and rice were not stored in a way that would protect them from contamination.

It was also alleged inspectors noticed a visible build-up of food scraps and dirt on crockery and knives, as well as fridges and storage areas.

It was alleged the company failed to maintain its equipment and that meat mincers, trays and other devices were rusty, dented and warped and unable to be cleaned effectively.

The company also was accused of displaying sushi rolls on deteriorated wooden display trays and failing to provide staff with a means of effectively washing and drying their hands in a serving area.

It was alleged cupboards and storage areas also were not cleaned properly and various tools used to prepare sushi, including wooden and metal scoops, were damaged and needed replacement.

It was alleged 28 breaches happened last August and a further 26 breaches last February.

The case is due to return to Holden Hill Magistrates Court in September, when the company must enter a plea.

Source: ABC News,  29 July 2013