Rodent droppings found in food storage area

Rodent droppings were evident in a food storage area and near the front service counter of a shop at Hayestown, Navan which was one of six premises served with closure orders by the Food Safety Authority in February.

Jarim Limited, trading as Day to Day Hayestown at Boyne Road Navan was served with a closure order on 26th February which was subsequently lifted on 5th March.

According to the closure order, adequate procedures were not in place to prevent or control the ingress of pests into the food premises."

"There is evidence of an active rodent infestation in the rear food storage area where prepackaged foods, food contact materials, and equipment are stored."

The inspector reported "rodent droppings underneath and behind the freezer, at floor-to-wall junctions, on shelving, underneath the sink unit, and inside the water boiler unit press.

"There was evidence of an active rodent infestation at the front service counter in close proximity to the deli area, the ice cream service area where open foods are handled and stored, and the main shop floor storing prepackaged foods.

"The evidence of rodent droppings at the time of inspection poses a significant risk of foodstuffs, food contact materials, and food contact surfaces becoming contaminated with pathogenic bacteria and foreign matter such as rodent faeces.

"Foodstuffs such as ice cream cones, coffee beans, sugar sachets, and hot chocolate sachets were not protected against contamination on the premises. Foods were stored in a room where there was evidence of an active rodent infestation.

"Food contact materials including napkins, ice cream tubs, coffee cups, and lids were not stored in a manner to protect against the risk of contamination on the premises."

Separately the National Environmental Food Service brought a prosecution against Dunnes Stores, Trimgate Street, Navan for an offence in February 2024, which was heard in Court on 14th February this year. Dunnes Stores pleaded guilty and paid €31.762.71 in legal and NEHS investigation costs along with a charitable contribution of €10,000. A conviction was not recorded against the defendant

Mr Greg Dempsey, Chief Executive, FSAI, stated that vigilance is always required in relation to food safety and that standards must be maintained to ensure that consumer health is not put at risk.

“February’s Enforcement Orders serve as an important reminder that food safety must always be a top priority for all food businesses. Regular checks and adherence to food safety and hygiene standards are essential to protect consumers’ health and maintain public trust. There are no excuses for failing to comply with legal requirements, and any lapse in food safety practices puts consumers at direct risk. Implementing a food safety management system is straightforward, especially with the supports available from the FSAI, yet some businesses continue to neglect this crucial legal requirement. Consumers have a right to safe food and it is imperative that all food businesses uphold the highest standards of food safety and hygiene at all times.”