LIVE: Popular Tipp takeaway forced to close after rats seen running around premises

A popular takeaway in Tipperary has been ordered to shut it's doors after an inspection carried out by the Environmental Health Service found "live rodent infestations" in food preparation areas along with a "live rodent running across the floor of the food storage room.

Red Robin Takeaway located at River St in Killinaule, Co Tipperary, was ordered to close it's doors on September 24, 2024, for failure to comply with food compliance along with clear evidence of specific non-compliance.

In the report from the authorised officer from the HSE under the Food Safety Authority Act of Ireland 1998, it stated that Red Robin Takeaway failed to comply with hygiene legislation,

"There is evidence of an active rodent infestation in the external food storage room where open food contact materials are being stored. This was evident by the presence of rodent faeces (recent) behind the freezers and in bags storing food contact materials.

"In addition, a live rodent was was observed running across the floor of the food storage room. There is evidence of an active rodent infestation in the potato preparation room . This was evident by the presence of rodent faeces at wall to floor junctions. Rodents are known to spread pathogens on their feet and via urine and faeces.

"The premises was not contained in in a clean condition the lack of adequate regular and thorough cleaning was evident in all parts of the food business particularly in the potato preparation room , the external food storage room, the front kitchen area and the rear kitchen area.

"There is a consistent failure to maintain cleaning standards at this premises contrary to legislation. This was identified during previous inspections."

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Dr Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive, FSAI, said that food businesses must ensure that their premises are fully pest proofed.

"The number of Closure Orders served in September, which listed evidence of widespread rodent or cockroach activity along with a lack of pest proofing, is very concerning.

"Pests can transmit very harmful pathogens to food, food surfaces and equipment and this presents a grave and immediate danger to public health. Every food business must ensure that they have a robust pest control system in place and that the system is checked regularly. It is crucial that swift and effective action is taken at the first sign of an infestation.

"Consumers have an absolute right to expect safe food. There is no room for excuses and adhering to food safety standards is a legal obligation for every food business,” said Dr Byrne.