What happens when the EHO closes a food business?

Environmental Health Officers can close a food business when they find a serious public health risk. Ireland’s Closure Orders are published by the FSAI. In the UK, officers can serve a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice, followed by court proceedings.

Common causes include pests, poor cleaning, unsafe temperatures, missing food safety documents and inadequate staff training.

The impact lasts beyond reopening: lost trade, news coverage and lasting damage to your reputation.

An independent audit helps you spot risks early and gives you a prioritised list of actions to take.