A Scots family were left disgusted after discovering a packet of egg fried rice covered in scales and mould.

Claire Macdonald, 26, and Craig Sinclair, 28, had picked up the 50p own-brand pouch in Aldi's Almondvale Road store back in July.

But the couple, who live in West Lothian, were left horrified after opening it on Monday only to find that it was contaminated, reports Edinburgh Live.

Describing the moment they saw the stomach-turning rice, Craig said: “We felt sick to our stomachs.”

Aldi had offered the couple a refund if they returned to the store with the original receipt and an empty packet - something the couple says is absolutely laughable.

He said: “There was no reason for it to look and smell like that as it was in date by some time. We couldn’t eat our curry as it totally put us off.

"There were what looked like scales, mould, pink meat and pink juices running through and off it. The smell was absolutely unbearable, I genuinely cannot describe how bad it was.

“Someone could have eaten that. A young child, someone with allergies or health issues. We think it is an absolute disgrace that this was allowed to sit on the shelves. Who is quality checking these products?"

The couple were left furious after unsuccessfully trying to reach customer services for hours on Tuesday.

Craig added: “We tried for hours to get in touch with someone at their customer service and they just got back to us on Tuesday morning.

"They said that on our return to the store to bring the empty packet and a receipt for a refund. It is unacceptable. Like 'hello', it looks like there is a dead animal or two in there.”

In response to Claire’s complaints on Twitter, Aldi issued this statement: “We’re sorry to hear this and will ensure your feedback is passed on to the relevant teams and supplier to make them aware.

"On your next trip to store, please return the packaging and your receipt and we will be happy to provide a refund. Thanks.”