A MEAT wholesaler is under investigation by the authorities over the standard of its products.

Swandean Meats in Manor Parade, Worthing, was inspected by officials from the Food Standards Agency on Wednesday.

A whistleblower contacted The Argus telling us products from the business were being checked by the inspectors, and Trading Standards workers were also present.

The man, who wanted his identity protected, said: “The agency, along with Trading Standards, came to the store.

“They were inspecting the meat on Wednesday.”

On its website, Swandean Meats states it was established in 1966 and is a “family owned” business.

“Our wealth of experience sees us firmly established as a company known for quality, service and an uncompromising attitude to detail,” the website says.

“Three major ingredients that when added to your own recipe will ensure an enjoyable eating experience for your customer.”

It adds: “We pride ourselves on a service that is unique to every customer, as a small meat supplier every customer is of the utmost importance and receives a dedicated team to provide for their every need.

“We have a large range of clients who range from care homes, restaurants to corporate hotels and government bodies so can cater to every enquiry and order.”

The inspection carried out was unannounced, the Food Standards Agency said.

When The Argus contacted Swandean Meats for a comment, an office manager would neither confirm or deny whether officials visited the business on Wednesday.

She said: “There is no one more senior than me here at the moment.

“I am not going to confirm or deny anything.”

The woman then told us to email the business with our request for a comment.

We sent an email to the address she supplied, but received no response by the time the paper went to print last night.

An FSA spokesman said: “The Food Standards Agency and West Sussex Trading Standards are carrying out an investigation at Swandean Fresh Meats following an unannounced inspection at their site.

“The investigation is ongoing at this stage and we are therefore unable to comment further.”

West Sussex County Council confirmed their officers attended the inspection.

A spokeswoman said: “I can confirm that West Sussex Trading Standards attended Swandean Meats in Worthing today.”

However, the investigation is being led by the FSA, and the council refused to add any further comment.

The spokeswoman added: “As this is an ongoing investigation, led by the Food Standards Agency, we are unable to comment any further.”