The Iceland store in Poplar, was also found to be selling food which had been gnawed by rodents, with one seen running around in the shop by inspectors.
Officers were called to the store, located in Vessey Path, E14, on January 8, after a customer reported mouse-gnawed crisp packets. After inspecting the shop, hygiene officers from Tower Hamlets closed it after finding the evidence.
Another photo from the inspection (Image: Tower Hamlets)
The council then prosecuted the company for four offences contrary to the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013.
On 24 February 2026, Iceland pleaded guilty to three charges, including failing to keep the premises clean and in good repair, and failing to have adequate procedures in place to control pests.
After extensive pest proofing and cleaning, the shop reopened on January 18, 2024, with a follow-up inspection resulting in a Food Hygiene Rating of 5.