Recently, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) took enforcement action against several businesses, including an unregistered one operating in a shed building that shared space with a car workshop. The FSAI issued closure orders on five premises in May.

Inspectors found that Heyba's Kitchen in Balbriggan, Co. Dublin was not registered by a competent authority. The shed where the business operated was divided by a fabric curtain, with the other half being a car workshop. Gaps between the spaces did not allow for proper food hygiene practices, leading to issues like pest control and contamination.

Inspectors discovered rodent droppings, dead insects, dirt, and dust in food handling areas at Heyba's Kitchen. Another inspection at Haperty Limited in Dublin revealed raw fish and chicken stored at improper temperatures for an unknown period.

Greg Dempsey, the Chief Executive of the FSAI, expressed disappointment at the high number of enforcement orders in May. He emphasized the importance of businesses having food safety management systems and proper staff training to prevent non-compliances like unclean premises and pest infestations.

In total, five Closure Orders were served in May, including at Haperty Limited, Spice Village & Indian Kebab House, Houda Foods, Heyba’s Kitchen, and Stop n Shop Convenience Store. Additionally, Prohibition Orders were issued for various violations at different establishments.

The FSAI is committed to ensuring that food businesses comply with legal requirements to protect consumers from unsafe or fraudulent food. They provide free resources on their website and a Learning Portal to help businesses improve compliance and food safety practices.