A city takeaway popular with those on a night out has been slapped with a low hygiene rating by food inspectors who have warned that "formal enforcement action is likely".
Piccolos in Prince of Wales Road has received a one-star hygiene rating after a visit from Norwich City Council inspectors on March 11.
A one-star rating means that "major improvement is necessary" if a business is to avoid enforcement action.
The takeaway scored pretty well for its food hygiene and safety, though inspectors raised concerns about the cross-contamination of food due to chopping boards sitting close to each other on work surfaces.
Staff were also criticised for not wearing suitable clothing when handling food.
Several items were listed as "dirty" by the inspector, including the interior of the microwave, the light switches, door handles and the bottom of the fridge door.
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Rat droppings were also found behind the fridge in the rear room and the business has been told that legally they need to employ the services of a pest controller.
However, the inspector called the lack of allergen information a "major non-compliance with legal requirements" and the overall score suffered due to a lack of confidence in the management systems in place.
Catering businesses must provide allergen information for every item they sell and outline the potential for cross-contamination by allergens to consumers.
"The contraventions require your urgent attention," warned the inspector in the report.
"A revisit is planned and formal enforcement action is likely."
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The takeaway has an average score of 2.9 out of five from 102 reviews on Google and offers delivery services, including via Just Eat.
Its late opening hours make it a popular choice for those enjoying the nightlife in Prince of Wales Road, with burgers, pizzas, chicken wings and chips served until 3.30am.
The shop remains open and trading as usual.
Attempts to speak to management at Piccolos were unsuccessful.
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