The Food Safety Authority of Ireland today clarified the rules around letting animals into supermarkets and other food businesses.
The statement makes it clear that “access by domestic animals is prohibited to food premises or parts of food premises where food is prepared, handled or stored.”
However, general access to supermarkets, shops and kitchens is allowed by law — though the decision is generally at the discretion of the food business owner.
The FSAI makes it clear that there are exceptions, though, and that the following types of animals should be permitted to enter food businesses:
- Guide dogs to help people who are vision impaired
- Assistance dogs for families of children with autism
- Assistance dogs for adolescents with autism
- Companion dogs for persons with other disabilities
- Pups and dogs in training who will go on to qualify as the above categories of dog
The full statement by the FSAI can be read here.
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