Cork SuperValu Hit with Shutdowns After Rodent Infestation Discovery

In September, Ireland’s food safety authority took significant action against multiple food establishments due to serious health violations. A total of ten establishments received enforcement orders for various public health issues, including rodent infestations and expired food products. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) highlighted alarming conditions in some inspected locations.

Key Findings from Inspections

• Evidence of rodent activity in multiple locations.
• Food being sold beyond its use-by date.
• Absence of hot water, soap, and hygienic materials at wash-hand basins.
• Unclean conditions in food preparation and cooking areas.

Temporary Closure and Prohibition Orders

The Health Service Executive (HSE) enforced five temporary closure orders and five prohibition orders. Notably, a SuperValu located in the Hollyhill Shopping Centre in Cork received two closure orders. Similarly, the Wok In Noodle Bar on Stephen Street Lower in Dublin was also issued a closure order.

Other establishments affected include:

• New Leaf takeaway in Skerries, Co Dublin — issues related to sushi and sashimi preparation.
• MOMO House in Letterkenny, Co Donegal — issued a closure order.
• VitalOrganico in Castleknock, Co Dublin — received two prohibition orders.
• Duud retailer in Blanchardstown, Dublin — faced a prohibition order as well.
• Nearby Cashel in Cashel, Co Tipperary; XL convenience store in Drumconrath, Co Meath; and BK Foods Limited in Newbridge, Co Kildare — all received additional prohibition orders.

Health Risks Identified

Inspections at the SuperValu in Cork revealed significant health risks. Pest activity was noted under refrigeration units, raising concerns about possible food contamination. Inspectors determined that there was a “grave and immediate danger to public health,” indicating a serious risk of food unfit for consumption.

The XL convenience store was found to be selling both cooked and raw meat past their use-by dates. Furthermore, rodent droppings were reported in the Wok In Noodle Bar, demonstrating ongoing issues with food safety compliance.

Response from Food Safety Authority

FSAI Chief Executive Greg Dempsey expressed concern regarding the persistent breaches of food safety regulations. He emphasized the necessity for food businesses to implement robust food safety management systems and ensure thorough staff training.

Both closure and improvement orders will be publicly available for three months post-correction, while prohibition orders will be listed for one month. These measures aim to protect public health and promote food safety throughout Ireland.