Kilburn grocer Mohammad Yunous Sharafat fined $45,000 for food safety breaches

A SUPERMARKET owner whose expired, mouldy and insect-infested stock put the “gross” in “groceries” has been fined $45,000 for putting the public’s heath at serious risk.

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A SUPERMARKET owner whose expired, mouldy and insect-infested stock put the “gross” in “groceries” has been fined $45,000 for putting the public’s heath at serious risk.

On Friday, the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court told Mohammad Yunous Sharafat there was no excuse for his hazardous business practices, warning he must never repeat them.

In sentencing, Magistrate Bob Harrap said council workers had tried to help Sharafat turn Star Supermarket, at Kilburn, around — but he had shown little interest in complying.

Meat Carcasses left uncovered in a cool room at Star Supermarket at Kilburn. Picture: SA Courts.

“Specific and personal deterrence in this matter is necessary because, Mr Sharafat, you are something of a slow learner,” he said.

“I hope (the fine) makes it clear that you need to make sure this is not repeated ... these are serious offences with potentially serious consequences for the public.”

Insects were found inside dried fruit products. Picture: SA Courts.

Sharafat, 34, was charged with 54 food standard breaches following a routine inspection of his Prospect Rd business by the Port Adelaide Enfield Council.

Inspectors alleged they found dairy products that had expired seven months earlier, uncovered raw meat on wooden pallets alongside fresh produce and fish with visible mould.

The further alleged they found mouldy bread and dried fruit, as well as insects in packets of dates and flour.

Whitebait fish with mould at the Star Supermarket in Kilburn. Picture: SA Courts.

In a plea bargain deal, Sharafat admitted 35 offences including failing to properly store, label, separate and dispose of food to prevent contamination, and failing to maintain cleanliness.

Last month, prosecutors said Sharafat had a history of such offences and accused him of “cutting corners”, while defence counsel insisted he had since changed his ways.

On Friday, Mr Harrap acknowledged those efforts — but expressed his fear they did not go far enough.

Dairy products, six months out of date, were found. Picture: SA Courts.

“The council has attempted to assist you, educate you, and it does not appear you paid the attention you should have,” he said.

“You have conceded you were somewhat distracted by ongoing issues with your business partner and the lease, taking your focus away from these issues.

“Most of the systems you have (since) put in place are dependent on you being personally very diligent (and so) the council is still concerned.

“There can be no repeat, and you cannot afford for there to be any further offending.”

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