Food Safety Watchdog Issues October Closure Orders After Dead Rat Found Under Dishwasher
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has issued closure orders to eleven food establishments in October 2023, following serious health concerns. Additionally, two businesses received prohibition orders concerning unsafe food products.
Closure Orders Issued
Closure orders are implemented when there is a significant threat to public health found at the premises. Among the highlighted cases:
- Kimchi Hop House, Dublin 1: Closed on October 16 after rodent activity was identified. A dead rat was discovered under a dishwasher, alongside rat droppings throughout the premises. The order was lifted on November 4.
- Diamond Pizza, Dublin 9: Served with a closure order on October 15 due to poor maintenance, including a defective wall and mold behind kitchen chill units. The order was rescinded on October 21.
- Camile Thai, Dublin 8: Ordered to close on October 8 after rodent droppings were found. An immediate cleaning and deep sanitization were mandated. The order was lifted by October 10.
- Crescent Stores: Closed on October 21 after mouse droppings were discovered in the storeroom. This order was lifted by October 24.
Prohibition Orders on Food Products
The FSAI also issued prohibition orders impacting food safety:
- Foodliner Supermarket, Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon: The order concerned chicken legs and frozen meat improperly stored.
- Lucaci Fast Travel, Dublin: Two orders targeted unspecified frozen meat products and unidentified five-litre bottles of potential wine or colored liquid.
Key Takeaways
Greg Dempsey, the FSAI chief executive, emphasized the critical need for stringent food safety and hygiene measures. Common issues leading to enforcement action include:
- Inadequate pest control
- Poor cleaning standards
- Unsafe food storage practices
Dempsey remarked that these compliance problems are avoidable with proper food safety management systems. He urged food businesses to prioritize safety, especially with the upcoming Christmas season, as non-compliance could lead to serious repercussions.
