The number of complaints about poor hygiene in food production outlets has increased sharply, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has said.
Latest figures from the FSAI show that the number of complaints to its food safety helpline has trebled since it launched an advertising campaign to encourage consumers not to buy in restaurants, delicatessens or takeaways which they believe have poor hygiene standards.
In July and August the helpline received 351 complaints, the majority of which dealt with bad food handling practices and poor toilet cleanliness.
The FSAI said this sent a clear message to food production companies that consumers were no longer willing to accept poor hygiene, and that customers could force companies to improve their hygiene standards.
Among the complaints about delicatessen counters were staff handling raw meats and cooked meats without changing gloves or washing their hands in between. Staff were also reported to be preparing food with the gloves they had used to handle money.
Complaints about restaurants and cafes include staff cleaning the sinks in toilets and then using the same cloth to wipe tables. Consumers often complained about toilet facilities only to be told by management that it was difficult to get staff.
"People should be vigilant about all levels of cleanliness right from floor surfaces and display counters to the appearance of staff and their professional approach to food handling," according to Dr Patrick Wall, chief executive of the FSAI.
If consumers are still worried about hygiene issues after complaining to management, they should inform the environmental health officer in the business's area, said Mr Ray Ellard, chief specialist, Environmental Health, FSAI.