The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) issued 133 enforcement orders on food businesses in 2024, a 45% increase from the previous year. The FSAI stated that the majority of food businesses comply with regulations, but recurring issues, particularly concerning pest control and hygiene, are unacceptable. In December alone, several businesses were found with decomposed rodent carcasses, droppings, and cockroach infestations.
A pizza and Chinese takeaway in Callan, Co Kilkenny was forced to close after rat droppings and a carcass were discovered. Murphy’s Fish and Chips in Waterford was also ordered to close due to cockroach activity in equipment and throughout the premises. Cork Rooftop Farm at Cornmarket Street was closed due to rodent droppings and gnawed packaging. K&Q Snacks Limited in Dublin was cited for rat droppings and set-off rat traps, while Panda Chinese Take Away in Clogheen, Tipperary, had mouse droppings and evidence of dirt, grease, and food debris. Between January 1st and December 31st, 115 closure orders, 16 prohibition orders, and two improvement orders were issued by environmental health officers, sea-fisheries protection officers, and inspectors in the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Dr Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive of the FSAI, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that consumers have a right to safe food and negligent food practices are inexcusable. She urged food businesses to take responsibility and ensure compliance with food safety legislation