The alert arises following the theft of between 41 to 43 boxes (roughly 20-24 kilos per box) of beef containing prime cuts, rolled rib of beef and knuckle. The FSAI advises that any break in the cold chain between the time the meat was stolen and when it may be sold could result in a serious health risk to consumers, particularly given the recent hot weather.
The FSAI is asking businesses and consumers who notice any suspicious sales of meat to contact the Authority on 1890 336677.
The FSAI is alerting both consumers and food businesses of the risks involved and reminding food businesses of their legal obligation only to purchase meat from approved sources having checked all appropriate documentation. Similarly, the FSAI warns consumers not to purchase any meat sold from unregistered outlets or unregistered door-to-door sales.