A convenience store where animal carcasses were kept just inches from fresh herbs and salad items has been handed a one-star food hygiene rating.

Officials highlighted more than a dozen areas of concern at Variety Cash and Carry in Lower High Street, Ashford.

These also include poor hand-washing practices, evidence of flies in a butchery area and out-of-date food such as chicken livers being stored in display chillers.

Ashford Borough Council (ABC) inspectors have warned store bosses formal enforcement action may be taken if similar out-of-date items are found during future inspections.

Handing the shop the second-lowest possible hygiene score following the visit on March 21, the officials say major improvements are needed.

Pictures from their report show how animal carcasses, fresh herbs and salad items were being stored just inches from each other in a walk-in chiller.

Foods were not properly wrapped or packaged, leaving them open to contamination.

Meanwhile, one worker was observed handling high-risk raw food, ready-to-eat products and the till without washing their hands thoroughly between each station.

The inspectors write: “Thorough hand washing is essential to prevent cross-contamination.”

Raw meat, including chicken and pork, was being handled and prepared in the stairway by the rear exit door – despite the fact it is not designed to facilitate food preparation.

At the time of the inspection, cuts of meat in the display chiller were being stored at a temperature of 15°C+ for more than 6 hours.

“High-risk foods can support the growth of food poisoning bacteria or the formation of toxins and must be stored below 8°C,” the officials advise.

The standard of cleaning in the butchery, wash-up area and stairwell by the rear entrance was described as “poor”.

Evidence of flies - which can cause food poisoning - was found in the butchery area, along with dirty wall tiles which are in need of repair.

The door seals on the walk-in chiller in the butchery area were deemed to be dirty and damaged as well, while the butcher’s block in the meat handling area was in a poor condition and could not be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

The sink for hand-washing in the downstairs food preparation area was not easily accessible to food handlers because it was in a different room, requiring them to go through two doors.

Officials advised access to the basin must be kept clear at all times.

ABC inspectors said: “It was apparent during the inspection that the level of food hygiene awareness amongst staff members was inadequate.

“It was noted that food handlers are not following the practices and procedures laid out in the 'Safer Food Better Business' and 'Butcher Safe' pack

“Windows and doors must be kept closed. Where they are opened to provide ventilation, they should be fitted with insect-proof screens, which can easily be removed for cleaning.

“All areas must be maintained in a clean condition.”

The owner of Variety Cash and Carry told KentOnline things would improve but did not comment further.