A Mossley company at the centre of an animal welfare controversy has faced enforcement action from the Food Standards Agency after footage allegedly showed inhumane slaughter practices.

Hartshead Meats, based on Broadcarr Lane in Mossley, has been the target of protests following the release of a video that campaigners claim depicts cows being killed without being stunned, in accordance with Jewish kosher rules. The footage, captured in February, has sparked outrage online, with additional videos showing what is described as a 'river of blood' flowing down Broadcarr Lane and a staff member walking through it.

The controversy has led several local butchers to publicly state that they do not source their meat from Hartshead Meats, distancing themselves from the allegations. The furore has prompted Mossley's MP, Jonathan Reynolds, to seek assurances from the Food Standards Agency, which has confirmed it is investigating the matter.

In a letter to Mr Reynolds, Professor Susan Jebb of the FSA stated that officials had received a significant volume of enquiries from the public, many of whom are understandably upset after witnessing graphic footage of animal slaughter. "FSA officials immediately initiated a full investigation at Hartshead Meats Ltd and have carried out reviews of CCTV footage covering all slaughter activity at the premises, focusing on the dates highlighted to us by Lawyers for Animals," she wrote.

"We have already taken some immediate enforcement action, including the suspension and removal of competence certificates so that particular individuals are prevented from working with animals at the site." Professor Jebb also noted that the company's management has been fully cooperative with the investigation.

However, Hartshead Meats has defended its practices, claiming that the footage in question has been edited to lack essential context and presents a misleading and inaccurate portrayal of its facility. In a statement, the firm said: "We believe the public should consider the source of this footage and the documented history of the individual involved, whose primary objective appears to be to generate sensationalised content for financial gain."

"We maintain the highest industry standards and operate under the constant supervision of the Food Standards Agency. A Government veterinary surgeon and two meat inspectors are present during all animal handling to ensure welfare standards are strictly upheld." The company added that it views the actions as a targeted attempt to disrupt a local business that supports dozens of families, and it will be handling the matter through legal and regulatory channels.

The company has also revealed that police are investigating circumstances surrounding another social media video, though details remain unclear. The ongoing investigation has raised questions about enforcement and transparency in the meat industry, with local residents and campaign groups calling for stricter oversight.

For Oldham residents, the controversy highlights the importance of animal welfare standards in local food production. The FSA has assured the public that it is taking the matter seriously and will continue to monitor compliance at the site.