The Food Safety Authority of Ireland has reported that seven food businesses received Enforcement Orders in February due to breaches of food safety legislation. These orders were issued under the FSAI Act, 1998, and the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations, 2020. Environmental Health Officers from the Health Service Executive and sea-fisheries protection officers from the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) carried out the enforcement actions.
In total:
- Two Closure Orders were issued under the FSAI Act, 1998.
- Four Closure Orders were issued under the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation).
Serious Food Safety Violations Identified
The Enforcement Orders were served for multiple serious violations, including:
- Evidence of rodent activity, including six mouse carcasses on a warehouse floor and rodent droppings near a service counter.
- A complete lack of cleaning, with significant dirt and grease buildup on food contact surfaces and equipment.
- No hot water available for washing surfaces and food equipment.
- Absence of a food safety management system, which is a legal requirement.
- Unsafe food storage practices, including raw chicken kept in previously used chip boxes and expired food stored on-site.
- High-risk foods stored at unsafe temperatures, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
The FSAI Calls for Greater Vigilance in Food Safety
FSAI Chief Executive Greg Dempsey emphasised that food safety must remain a top priority for all businesses:
"These Enforcement Orders highlight the critical need for vigilance in food safety. Regular checks and strict hygiene standards are essential to protect consumer health and maintain public trust. There is no excuse for failing to meet legal requirements – any lapse in food safety puts consumers at direct risk."
He also stressed the importance of food safety management systems, which are straightforward to implement with FSAI support:
"Consumers have a right to safe food. It is essential that all food businesses uphold the highest standards of food safety and hygiene at all times."
Additionally, in February, the Health Service Executive (HSE) pursued one prosecution for food safety violations.
At SafeHands Health and Safety Solutions, we understand the challenges food businesses face in meeting strict regulatory standards. That’s why we offer tailored, onsite solutions to keep you compliant and protect your business from enforcement actions.
Our Food Safety/HACCP Level 2 training and certification provide your staff with the essential skills and knowledge to uphold the highest food safety standards. By addressing key risk factors – such as inadequate training and ineffective pest control – we help safeguard both your customers and your reputation.
Don’t let food safety lapses put your business at risk. Get in touch with SafeHands today on 01-7979836 or 0873823223, email info@safehands.ie, or visit www.safehands.ie to ensure your business meets Ireland’s top HACCP standards.