Many avoid take-away due to poor hygiene

IRISH consumers are avoiding takeaway food because of serious concerns over preparation and hygiene, a survey has revealed.

The research results, unveiled at a conference on food safety yesterday, show one third of those surveyed said they suffered food poisoning or stomach upsets after eating a takeaway.

As many as 70% stopped buying from particular outlets because of their concerns.

Commissioned by the cross-Border food safety promotion board, Safefood, 63% of those interviewed said they were particularly concerned about the cleanliness of premises, kitchen and staff.

Just less than half noticed food and money being handled at the same time while 37% feared cross contamination from the handling of raw meat.

Irish consumers are better informed, more inquisitive, more aware of their environment and the risks that go with it, the ‘Excellence in Safefood’ conference at Dublin’s Berkeley Court Hotel heard.

It was attended by food safety experts from both sides of the Border.

The research, conducted by Amarach Consulting, found between 50 and 60% of people in the North and the Republic were concerned about hygiene.

While 70% have stopped buying from particular fast food outlets, this rises to 86% when asked about mobile units.

Safefood’s director of communications Barney Whelan said: “Consumers are now better equipped with the knowledge to allow them to make more informed decisions when considering where to shop, what foods to consume and how to respond to certain risks. Our research certainly shows that consumers are indeed talking with their feet.”

It also found people were becoming more choosy when buying from sandwich bars.