Man Utd release statement after being given one-star food hygiene rating

Manchester United have responded to the news that they have been given a one-star food hygiene rating.

The news broke on Friday that Old Trafford had been downgraded from five stars to one after two guests were served raw chicken at an event on 21 November. United insist that it was an isolated incident and the first of its kind to be reported at the club’s ground.

Regardless, the Foods Hygiene Agency say ‘major improvements’ are needed in regards to the management of food safety at Old Trafford.

A spokesperson for Trafford Council said: “We can confirm that the hygiene rating for Old Trafford (Manchester United) has been downgraded from five to one.

“This follows a food hygiene investigation following an incident where undercooked food was served at an event on 21 November.”

In response, United released a statement saying: “Manchester United has one of the largest and most experienced food and beverage operations in world sport, with more than 250,000 people dining at the stadium restaurants and over 300 external events successfully delivered each year.

“Every matchday, the catering is enjoyed by over 8,000 people, served by 28 kitchens across the stadium, and the club is proud of the high standards and the 5-star food hygiene record which had been awarded to us for the past eight years. 

“This was an isolated incident, and the point of failure was identified and addressed. Everyone at the club is determined to regain our 5-star food hygiene status as quickly as possible. To support that objective, we are conducting an independent food audit to identify any further opportunities for improvement.”