News

Supermarket chain CK Foodstores accused of selling expired meat

Published

3 years ago

July 11, 2023

A POPULAR supermarket chain, CK Foodstores, has come under fire after it was exposed for selling meat that was up to 13 days past its use-by date. The shocking discovery was made by S4C’s investigative program, Y Byd ar Bedwar, which found nearly 50 items being sold or displayed past their expiration dates in several CK Foodstores.

Selling products beyond their use-by date is not only an offence but also poses health risks to consumers. Consuming spoiled meat can lead to various illnesses and complications. Therefore, it is crucial for businesses to adhere to proper food safety regulations.

MONITOR AND IMPROVE

CK Foodstores has pledged to “monitor and improve” its policies in response to the allegations. The supermarket chain operates over 30 stores across south and west Wales. While some stores may display the Nisa logo due to a partnership with the brand Nisa Local, it’s important to note that CK Foodstores independently owns and operates these establishments.

The investigation, which spanned nearly a year, focused exclusively on CK Foodstores. There is no suggestion that Nisa Local has been involved in the sale of expired food items.

During the probe, it was revealed that almost half of the 24 stores visited were selling products past their use-by dates. Specific examples include a piece of gammon that was 13 days expired at a CK’s store in Penclawdd, Swansea, and chicken drumsticks that were two days out-of-date at the St Clears store in Carmarthenshire.

Further instances of expired meat were found at stores in Birchgrove, Brynhyfryd, Burry Port, Cimla, Llandysul, St David’s, and Waunarlwydd.

PEMBROKESHIRE

In the Narberth store in Pembrokeshire, the investigative team even purchased a bag of gammon misshapes that were sold a shocking 10 days past their use-by date.

This is not the first time CK Foodstores has faced legal repercussions for such violations. Last year, the supermarket chain was ordered to pay nearly £30,000 for selling expired food and displaying unsafe products in two of its Swansea stores.

Nathan Barnhouse, director of the Food Standards Agency (FSA), emphasized the importance of use-by dates in ensuring consumer safety. He stated, “A use-by date is about safety. It may smell and look OK, but you won’t necessarily see the bacteria that could potentially make you ill. That could lead to hospitalization if you’re elderly, young, or have an underlying health condition. And just because you may have eaten food past its use-by date in the past and been OK, you may not be so lucky in the future. Shops shouldn’t be selling anything past its use-by date.”

In response to the accusations, CK Foodstores issued a statement to the program, expressing their commitment to customers and the communities they serve. They asserted that they would continue to enhance their policies and procedures to ensure customers receive quality items at reasonable prices. However, the company did not specifically address the allegations of selling expired products.

CK Foodstores said to the programme in a statement: “CK’s values all of its customers and the communities in which it operates.

“In recognition of its commitment to its customers, CK will continue to monitor and improve on its policies and procedures to ensure that its customers continue to receive quality items at reasonable prices.”

CK’s did not respond to the allegations of selling products past the use-by date.

The Food Standards Agency has highlighted the severity of selling meat beyond its use-by date, clarifying that it is not only a violation but also endangers public health.

As consumers, it is vital that we remain vigilant and demand accountability from businesses regarding food safety standards.

Crime

Police stop car in Pennar as three arrested in drugs investigation

Published

12 hours ago

March 24, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Suspected drug driver report leads to major police response and multiple arrests

DRAMATIC scenes were reported in Pennar on Monday afternoon (Mar 23) after multiple police vehicles were deployed to stop a car.

The incident happened at around 5:00pm near Pennar Court, Pembroke Dock, where officers located a stationary vehicle following reports of a suspected drug driver in the area.

Police attended and pre-emptively stopped the vehicle, also blocking a second car nearby.

Officers carried out searches of both vehicles and discovered suspected controlled substances.

A 32-year-old woman and a 47-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of possessing class A and class B drugs with intent to supply. A 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drug driving and possession of class A and class B drugs with intent to supply.

The 32-year-old woman has been released under investigation, while the 31-year-old man and 47-year-old woman have been released on unconditional bail.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed the incident followed reports of a man believed to be driving under the influence in the area earlier that afternoon.

Crime

Sex offender jailed for sending explicit messages to ’14-year-old’ girls

Published

12 hours ago

March 24, 2026

Sarah Jane Absalom

A MAN has been jailed after sending sexual messages on Snapchat to three girls he believed were aged 14.

Ciaran Carmody, aged 21, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court via video link from HM Wrexham prison, where he admitted three offences of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child under 16.

The court heard the messages were sent on three separate occasions to accounts posing as 14-year-old girls, which were in fact part of an undercover police operation.

Prosecutor Nia James said each of the girls made their age clear, but the messages sent by Carmody were sexual in nature.

The offences took place between April 25 and May 5, 2025.

Finance

Haverfordwest savers encouraged to seek clarity ahead of ISA tax year end

Published

12 hours ago

March 24, 2026

Tom Sinclair

TWO in three savers say a fixed interest rate would give them greater peace of mind when planning their finances, according to new research from Principality Building Society*, as people in Haverfordwest are encouraged to review their savings ahead of the ISA tax year deadline.

The research, conducted with more than 1,500 people, also found that while many savers feel comfortable managing their money independently, a significant number still value the reassurance of speaking to someone when making important financial decisions.

Meanwhile, around one in six people mistakenly believe they must open a new ISA every tax year, highlighting ongoing confusion around how ISAs work. In many cases, particularly for variable savings products, savers may be able to continue paying into an existing ISA.

With the tax year end approaching, Principality Building Society is inviting Members and local savers to speak with colleagues at its High Street branch in Haverfordwest to better understand their options and make informed choices about how to use their ISA allowance.

The research also highlights the appeal of certainty when it comes to savings. Two in three savers say a fixed rate would give them peace of mind, reflecting the reassurance that comes from knowing exactly what return they will receive over a set period. Fixed rate Cash ISAs can provide that certainty, making it easier for some savers to plan ahead.

Vicky Wales, Chief Savings and Lending Officer at Principality Building Society, said: “ISA season can often feel busy and confusing, particularly against the backdrop of changes in the wider financial environment. Many people value the opportunity to talk through their options and feel confident they’re making the right decision.

Every saver’s situation is unique, so having a conversation can help people better understand their choices and how these align with their longer-term plans. Understanding the differences between savings products – including fixed and variable rates – can help savers make the most of their ISA allowance, and ensure their money is working in a way that suits their individual goals.”

Principality Building Society is encouraging anyone in Haverfordwest who would like to review their savings ahead of the tax year end to visit their local branch for a supportive conversation about their options, and how they can make the most of their savings.

Source: Principality Building Society’s own online community, Member Pulse, survey on Cash ISAs, March 2026 (total respondents: 1,544)