The Food Standards Agency's National Food Crime Unit (NFCU) reported on 13 August 2026 that over 33 tonnes of suspected illegal frozen food products had been seized since an operation began across England, Wales and Scotland. One man was arrested and later released under investigation, with enquiries ongoing. After the arrest, NFCU officers and local authority partners disposed of 25 tonnes of suspected illegal frozen products in June.

Local authorities seized over 8 tonnes during 111 visits to businesses, contributing to the 33 tonnes total. Partners included Greater Manchester and Staffordshire Police and Stoke-on-Trent City Council. The FSA said there was no indication of a health risk to the public.

NFCU Senior Investigator Wayne Parker said the seizures and arrest sent a strong message, and Head of NFCU Andrew Quinn said food fraud is not a victimless crime. A Stoke-on-Trent City Council spokesperson said the council had alerted the FSA to earlier investigations finding a premises selling frozen food with fraudulent labels and no traceability. The FSA said investigations into the wider trade were continuing.