Ten Food Businesses Issued Enforcement Notices in September
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has taken significant action against several food businesses in September. Five businesses received closure orders, while another five were issued prohibition orders due to health and safety violations.
Key Events and Violations
Among the most alarming incidents reported was a rat sighting in a food establishment. This premises had rat droppings on floors and shelving where food was stored, raising serious health concerns. Additional violations included:
- Sale of food beyond its sell-by date
- Untrained staff regarding food safety controls
- Lack of soap and hot water at handwashing stations
Geographic Distribution of Enforcement Notices
The FSAI primarily targeted establishments in Dublin. However, enforcement notices were also issued to businesses in Cork, Donegal, Tipperary, Meath, and Kildare. This widespread enforcement aims to uphold food safety standards across the nation.
List of Affected Businesses
The following food businesses were affected by closure orders under the FSAI Act 1998:
- SuperValu Hollyhill, Hollyhill Shopping Centre, Cork
- Wok In Noodle Bar, Dublin
- Restaurant Café, 48-50 Stephen Street Lower, Dublin 2
In addition, two closure orders were enacted under the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations 2020:
- New Leaf, Skerries, Co Dublin (Sushi and sashimi takeout)
- The MOMO House, Letterkenny, Co Donegal (Ceased trading on 10/10/2025)
Prohibition Orders Issued
Five businesses also faced prohibition orders, categorized as follows:
- FSAI Act 1998 Prohibition Orders:
- Vitalorganico, Castleknock, Co Dublin
- Duud, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15
- EU Regulations 2020 Prohibition Orders:
- Nearby Cashel, Cashel, Co Tipperary
- XL Convenience Store, Navan, Co Meath
- BK Foods Limited, Newbridge, Co Kildare
Impact and Future Precautions
Under the FSAI Act, closure orders are necessary when there is a grave and immediate danger to public health. Prohibition orders prevent the handling and sale of food that pose risks to consumer safety.
Greg Dempsey, the Chief Executive of the FSAI, expressed concern over the recurring breaches of food safety legislation. He emphasized that such issues can be avoided through robust food safety management systems and proper staff training.
