The Food Safety Authority of Ireland has reported that eight Enforcement Orders were issued to food businesses in May for violations of food safety legislation, in accordance with the FSAI Act, 1998, and the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations, 2020. These orders were issued by Environmental Health Officers from the Health Service Executive (HSE).
Of these orders, four Closure Orders were served under the FSAI Act, 1998, three Closure Orders under the European Union regulations, and Environmental Health Officers served one Improvement Order. Additionally, the HSE undertook one prosecution related to a food business in May.
FSAI Chief Executive Dr Pamela Byrne emphasised the importance of careful food preparation, particularly for high-risk foods like sushi, which require specific food safety controls. She noted that improper defrosting of food, often done at room temperature, allows bacteria to multiply. Defrosting should only occur in refrigerators.
Dr Byrne also highlighted that all food businesses must comply with mandatory food legislation, regardless of their establishment duration. Failure to do so poses a significant risk to public health. By adhering to best practices for food safety and hygiene, businesses can ensure safe food production. Enforcement measures will be taken against those not meeting legal obligations, providing consumers with assurance.
SafeHands Health & Safety Solutions can deliver Food Safety/HACCP training and certification for your staff, a Food Safety/HACCP system specifically designed for your food business or Food Safety advice on-site and face-to-face at your premises. So contact us by phone on 01-7979836 or mobile on 0873823223, email info@safehands.ie or visit www.safehands.ie – and be in SafeHands…