Hygiene Concerns Raised at Café Zinho in Middleton Shopping Centre
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Questions have been raised over hygiene standards at a café in Middleton Shopping Centre after visible dust was discovered on a service counter near the food preparation area.
Photographs seen by Manchester Today appear to show a build-up of grey dust particles resting on the black countertop at Cafe Zinho, a popular eatery located inside Middleton Shopping Centre. The dust was reportedly discovered after a visitor ran their hand across the counter surface, revealing a noticeable amount of debris that had accumulated. Food businesses operating in the UK are legally required to maintain strict hygiene standards under food safety regulations. Cleanliness of surfaces, especially those near food preparation or service areas, forms a key part of these requirements. Customers visiting cafés and restaurants typically assume that food preparation areas and customer-facing counters are regularly cleaned and maintained throughout the day.
While the presence of dust alone does not necessarily indicate a serious breach of regulations, visible debris in food service areas can raise questions about routine cleaning practices.
News of the discovery has already sparked conversation among local residents in Middleton, many of whom regularly visit the shopping centre.
Several shoppers told Manchester Today they would expect café counters to be cleaned frequently, particularly in locations where food is served directly to customers.
One local visitor said:
"When you go somewhere to eat or drink, especially inside a busy shopping centre, you expect everything to be clean. Seeing dust on a counter like that would definitely make people question the hygiene standards."
Another shopper added that cafés should be especially careful during busy periods when high customer footfall increases the need for regular cleaning. Follow Manchester Today on Facebook, and Instagram. Send your story ideas to Newsdesk@ManchesterToday.org.uk
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