The inspection on April 22 was prompted by a complaint made by a member of the public.

But, following the recent visit by an Environmental Health officer, there were “a number of cleaning issues identified and cleaning procedures that needed improving”.

A spokesperson for Maidstone council said: “Sainsbury’s was given one week to improve the level of cleanliness, but the premises were re-rated to a Food Hygiene Rating of 2*, meaning that improvement was necessary.

“A further revisit is planned in the near future. The MBC Food and Safety Team is in talks with Sainsbury’s, who have assured that improvements will be made.”

It came after images of widespread mould and rotting veg were posted on social media.

One user said: “Recently moved to the area and couldn’t believe the state of the meat section in this Sainsbury's – turned my stomach.”

Another added: “Went there for the first time in a few years a week ago and picked up an avocado. My finger went straight into it – anything I looked at was out of date, will never go back there again.”

A third customer said: “The pizzas in the box are soggy, bananas are black and splitting down the skin. You have to keep an eye on the sale-by dates.”

A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “Food safety is our highest priority and more than nine in 10 of our stores hold a five-star Food Standards rating, which we proudly display to customers.

“We’re working hard to make sure our Maidstone store meets our usual high standards, including deep cleaning and additional colleague training."

The downgrade follows several premises being hit with poor hygiene ratings in the town centre.

Earlier this year, seven stores and restaurants at The Mall shopping Centre were given one-star scores, of which two were forced to temporarily shut after inspectors discovered a “widespread” mouse infestation.

Not long after, food stall holders at Lockmeadow Entertainment Centre in Barker Road told KentOnline they were at risk of closure after also being hit with poor ratings.