The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has recently issued a total of 16 Enforcement Orders on food businesses in July, with 11 of these businesses located in Dublin. These orders were issued due to violations of food safety legislation in accordance with the FSAI Act of 1998 and the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations of 2020. The Enforcement Orders were enforced by Environmental Health Officers working under the Health Service Executive (HSE).
Closure Orders were served on three establishments under the FSAI Act of 1998, including Boba Bar, Hartigans, and Duud. Boba Bar, a restaurant/café situated at 139 Parnell Street in Dublin 1, was found to be in breach of food safety regulations. Hartigans, a public house located at 100 Leeson Street Lower in Dublin 2, was also issued a Closure Order. Additionally, Duud, a retailer operating from Unit 2 Pinewood House on Huntstown Road in Huntstown, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, received a Closure Order as well.
Nine Closure Orders were served under the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations of 2020. The Garden @ The Shannon Bar in Termonbarry, Roscommon, Fayrouz Restaurant in Dublin 8, and Riverhouse Café in Cahir, Tipperary were among the establishments that received Closure Orders. Furthermore, several retailers in Clondalkin, Dublin 22, including Eurasia Supermarket, Evergreen Retail Limited, Humeera Traders Limited, and Spice Village Indian Street Food, were also issued Closure Orders. Specific areas within these establishments were identified as having violations that required immediate closure.
In addition to the Closure Orders, Prohibition Orders were served on various businesses. Baltic Market, a retailer located at 2 Dominic Street in Drogheda, Louth, was issued a Prohibition Order under the FSAI Act of 1998. Goa Indian Spice Kitchen Ltd, a takeaway situated at Unit 103 in St Patrick’s Woollen Mills, Douglas, Cork, and Select Asia, a retailer also located at Unit 103 in St Patrick’s Woollen Mills, Douglas, Cork, were served Prohibition Orders as well. Quality Foods, a butcher shop at 59-61 Dublin Street in Balbriggan, Co. Dublin, received a Prohibition Order under the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations of 2020.
The reasons behind the Enforcement Orders in July were varied and concerning. Instances of ongoing cockroach activity, live cockroaches present in kitchen equipment, rodent droppings, and inadequate pest control measures were some of the issues identified. Additionally, violations such as expired, missing, or altered use-by dates on food items, unsafe thawing practices, improper storage temperatures, and lack of thorough cleaning were cited as reasons for the Orders.
Dr. Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive of the FSAI, emphasized the importance of compliance with food safety regulations for all food businesses. She highlighted the need for proper storage temperatures, staff training, stringent hygiene practices, and pest control measures to ensure the safety of the food being produced and sold. Achieving a strong food safety culture requires continuous training and consistent practices among all team members within a food establishment.
The Enforcement Orders issued by the FSAI are a reflection of the agency’s commitment to upholding food safety standards and protecting public health. The details of the businesses served with Enforcement Orders are available on the FSAI’s website for transparency and accountability. Closure Orders and Improvement Orders will remain listed on the website for three months from the date of correction, while Prohibition Orders will be listed for one month after the Order is lifted.
Impact of Enforcement Orders on Public Health
The Enforcement Orders issued by the FSAI have a direct impact on public health and safety. By addressing violations of food safety regulations, these Orders help prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses and ensure that consumers are protected from potential hazards. The presence of pests, inadequate cleaning practices, and improper storage of food can all lead to contamination and pose serious health risks to the public.
In cases where Closure Orders are issued, businesses are required to cease operations until the identified issues are rectified. This temporary closure not only affects the business owners but also impacts employees and customers who rely on these establishments for food and services. Closure Orders serve as a strong deterrent to other businesses, signaling the consequences of non-compliance with food safety regulations.
Prohibition Orders, on the other hand, prevent businesses from carrying out specific activities that pose a risk to public health. By prohibiting the sale or distribution of certain food items, these Orders help prevent further harm to consumers. Businesses served with Prohibition Orders must take immediate action to address the issues identified and demonstrate compliance with food safety regulations before the Order is lifted.
Ensuring Food Safety Compliance
Maintaining food safety compliance is crucial for all food businesses, regardless of their size or location. By adhering to strict hygiene practices, implementing proper storage procedures, and conducting regular pest control measures, businesses can protect their customers and uphold their reputation. Training staff members on food safety protocols and instilling a culture of cleanliness and responsibility are essential steps in ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.
The FSAI plays a key role in overseeing food safety standards in Ireland and enforcing compliance with food safety legislation. Through regular inspections, audits, and Enforcement Orders, the FSAI works to safeguard public health and hold businesses accountable for their practices. By publishing details of Enforcement Orders on its website, the FSAI promotes transparency and encourages businesses to prioritize food safety.
In conclusion, the Enforcement Orders issued by the FSAI serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining high food safety standards in the food industry. By addressing violations promptly and effectively, the FSAI helps protect consumers from potential health risks and ensures that food businesses operate in a safe and responsible manner. Compliance with food safety regulations is not only a legal requirement but also a moral obligation to prioritize the well-being of the public.