Traditional food safety messages don’t work: that’s why some 18 enforcement orders were served on businesses for breaches of food safety legislation last month in Ireland, the highest number served in any month in a decade.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland said 12 closure orders and six prohibition orders were served on food businesses by environmental health officers or veterinary inspectors in October.

Four businesses were also successfully prosecuted by the Health Service Executive.

FSAI chief executive Prof Alan Reilly expressed his concern at the “high level” of non compliance with food safety regulations by some food businesses in October.

“The inspectors found illegal, unhygienic or unsafe foods, with significant breaches of food safety legislation that put people’s health at serious risk,” he said.

“There’s absolutely no justification for negligence in this area. The legal onus is on food businesses to act responsibly and ensure that the food they serve and sell is safe for consumption.

“This requires putting appropriate food safety management procedures in place and making sure they are adhered to at all times.”