Fine for organic claim restaurant

Julie's Restaurant in Holland Park, west London, falsely listed dishes such as sausages, roast chicken and rack of lamb as organic.

Managing partner Johnny Ekperigin pleaded guilty under the Food Safety Act at West London Magistrates Court.

A spokesman for Kensington and Chelsea Council said the restaurant's claims had led to "a betrayal of lifestyle" for many consumers.

Records seized

The authority brought the prosecution after environmental health officers could not find delivery notes from organic suppliers.

Inspectors seized records of the restaurant's meat purchases and interviewed meat suppliers before prosecuting under the Food Safety Act.

At a hearing on 12 December, Mr Ekperigin, who was also ordered to pay £4,297 in costs, admitted that three types of meat were displayed as organic.

Councillor Fiona Buxton said: "For many visitors to the restaurant this has led to a betrayal of lifestyle.

"Consumers buy into the idea of organic food either due to the health implications or in support of good animal husbandry. Julie's Restaurant has cheated them of these values."

The restaurant is said to be popular with such celebrities as Gwyneth Paltrow, Kylie Minogue and Robbie Williams.