Disgusting conditions have been uncovered at a once-popular coffee shop in Cardiff, which was frequented by students. Stag Coffee, located on Crwys Road in Cathays, has been shut down following a shocking inspection by Cardiff Council’s Shared Regulatory Service on September 9, 2023. The investigation found live maggots, flies, and unsanitary equipment at the premises. The owner and operator of the establishment, Johance Quijada and Andrea De La Cruz Toke, have since been prosecuted for multiple food hygiene offences and were ordered to pay nearly £2,000 by Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on March 12.
The inspection revealed several alarming violations, including live maggot larvae in damaged kitchen floors, blocked wash basins overflowing with cooking equipment, a significant fly infestation, cross-contamination between raw and ready-to-eat food, dirty facilities, and insufficient hand washing facilities for staff. The disturbing images captured during the inspection were made public by Cardiff Council, showcasing the deplorable state of the coffee shop. The pictures include a small sink with a pot obstructing access to the taps and basin and other areas visibly infested with maggots.
Cardiff Council emphasised the importance of food hygiene for public safety, stressing that businesses must adhere to the legal standards in place to safeguard customers. The closure of Stag Coffee serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for stringent hygiene practices in food establishments to prevent health hazards and contamination. The revelation of such unsanitary conditions within a well-known establishment has sparked concerns among locals and raised questions about regulatory oversight and enforcement in the food industry.
The prosecution of the coffee shop’s owners underscores the serious consequences of neglecting food safety protocols and failing to maintain clean and hygienic premises. The hefty fine imposed on the defendants serves as a deterrent to other businesses and highlights the responsibility that establishments have in upholding food hygiene standards. The case has shed light on the importance of regular inspections and stringent enforcement measures to ensure that food businesses comply with regulations and prioritise the health and well-being of their customers.
The closure of Stag Coffee in the wake of such egregious violations serves as a cautionary tale for food establishments, underscoring the need for proactive hygiene practices, regular inspections, and compliance with food safety regulations. The incident has prompted reflections on the cleanliness and standards of other eateries in Cardiff, prompting calls for increased vigilance and oversight to prevent similar lapses in hygiene and protect public health. The shocking conditions uncovered at the coffee shop have highlighted the crucial role that regulatory bodies play in upholding food safety standards and safeguarding the community from potential health risks.