Successful investigations by APHA have resulted in the sentencing of Mr Jeremy Saunders of Orchard Organic Farm, Newton Abbot for falsifying salmonella test results.
The UK has strict rules in place to protect public health and maintain the integrity of the egg supply chain. Robust testing for salmonella in laying flocks is a vital part of these controls, and APHA will not hesitate to take firm enforcement action where individuals attempt to mislead inspectors or undermine these safeguards.
At the hearing at Exeter Crown Court on Friday 10 October, Mr Saunders pleaded guilty to one count of perverting the course of justice after providing forged salmonella test results following an audit by the APHA Egg Marketing Team for the UK National Control Programme for Salmonella.
He received a four-month custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months, was ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid work, and must pay costs and a victim surcharge totalling £387.
The UK National Control Programme for Salmonella aims to detect salmonella within egg-laying flocks and, when found, restrict the use of eggs to protect public health. APHA inspectors conduct regular audits on all laying flocks within the scope of the programme to ensure that farms meet their legal obligations.
Aled Edwards, Head of England Field Delivery at the Animal and Plant Health Agency, said
Forged or falsified test results pose an unacceptable risk to public health. APHA takes the integrity of the National Control Programme extremely seriously, and this case demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that essential testing and audit requirements are met.
We welcome the court’s sentence and hope it sends a clear signal to others.
Anyone with concerns about compliance within the egg or poultry sector is encouraged to contact APHA by telephoning 03000 200 301 or emailing [email protected]