A restaurant which received a one-star food hygiene rating was found to have mould growing in its ice machine.
The full report of the inspection at Lucky Star, a Chinese restaurant on Trafalgar Street, Brighton, was released following a Freedom of Information request by The Argus.
A one-star rating indicates that major improvements are necessary.
The report revealed several hygiene concerns, including mould in the ice machine, food stored outside and a hand sink in the kitchen blocked with pots and pans.
An open bottle of bleach was found stored alongside food containers and food hygiene awareness among staff was described as "inadequate".
The inspector's report stated: "I refer to my inspection of your premises carried out on September 11, 2024, and to the discussions held with the owner when a note of my key findings was left on site.
"I would confirm that this inspection covered the whole premises.
"As a result of my inspection, your premises has been awarded a hygiene rating of 1 out of a possible 5 under the national Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS)."
The report listed many issues which contributed to the low rating.
These included a lack of two-step cleaning and disinfection, and uncovered food in fridges and freezers.
The mould found in the ice machine was highlighted as a particular concern.
The report also noted that cardboard boxes were being used as food containers for prawn crackers, which is not permitted as they harbour bacteria and cannot be effectively cleaned and disinfected.
Potatoes and onions were being stored outside, which the inspector said could lead to contamination, and deteriorated food containers were also found on the premises.
The structure and cleanliness of the restaurant were also criticised in the report, including mould-damaged walls and ceilings in the basement store, torn and damaged kitchen flooring, and dirty and damaged kitchen pipes.
The inspector's report highlighted inadequate knowledge and risk assessment of allergens, with cross-contamination risks noted in the kitchen.
The restaurant was advised not to serve people with allergies until these issues are addressed.
The report also pointed out inadequate training of staff in food hygiene matters.
The inspector stated: "It was apparent from my inspection that the level of food hygiene awareness amongst your staff was inadequate."
Lucky Star has been approached for comment.
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