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This paper examines contemporary food culture in Ireland through the phenomenon of foodism and the habits and traits expressed through the subculture of foodies. Elements and actors of the Irish food scene are also considered. Qualitative research was applied to investigate the five research objectives posed. This featured six in-depth interviews with "key informants" from Ireland's tourism sector, educational sector, food sector, and a state food agency, conducted during 2020. The study draws insights from the fields of cultural studies and sociology. Thematic analysis was applied as part of the methodology process, from which five themes developed from the data findings. These are: (1) An evolving Irish food culture, (2) Two perceptions of Irish food, (3) A breakdown of hierarchies, (4) Influencing factors, (5) State body remits. The primary research reveals that industry experts and academics concur that Irish food and culture have "evolved" from a more traditional cuisine and culture and that these are dynamic entities. In addition, it establishes that there is a "hunger for food" amongst a small but growing cohort of Ireland's population, who wish to gain information via food media and to access food experiences such as culinary courses, gastro tours and food festival events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, foodborne illness is a significant public health challenge. Food safety inspection plays a crucial role in the regulation of food businesses to prevent foodborne illnesses. To be an effective health protection measure, however, food safety inspections must facilitate the thorough evaluation of food safety risks. Our research examined how food safety inspectors from Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, and the U.S. assessed food contamination control during food premise inspections. Data were collected via an online survey of environmental health practitioners who routinely conduct food safety inspections. The findings indicated that inspectors are generally aware of food safety hazards that can be present at food businesses and have deployed a variety of relevant data-gathering methods to inform their examination of the extent of contamination control. The findings also indicated a prevailing methodological incongruence stemming from the absence of a robust inspection methodology. We propose that these shortcomings be addressed by solutions that are formulated based on established hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP) principles and qualitative field research. The development of a clear and appropriate methodology will support food safety inspections to provide a robust and reliable means for evaluating food safety risk and ultimately reduce the incidence and burden of foodborne illness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The degree to which the townspeople of medieval Ireland enjoyed food security or experienced food insecurity forms the subject of this paper. Having outlined the context within which Irish medieval towns started to experience food insecurity, the paper then proceeds to examine responses to this situation. These include protection of the urban area, strategies for improved storage and transport of foodstuffs, the production of food within and immediately adjacent to urban space, the regulation of the food trades, the operation of food markets, inter-regional and international trade, and the engagement with sometimes hostile rural hinterlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the impact of the United Kingdom's (UK) exit from the European Union (EU) on food trade within the UK, between the UK and the EU, and the border controls affecting higher-risk food, with a particular focus on Northern Ireland. Topics include the EU border controls, intra-EU trade, trade agreements, and the GB-NI border's complexity. It also explores the historical context of Brexit and the complex challenges associated with border controls and food regulations.

To understand the molecular mechanisms that contribute to the stress responses of the important foodborne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes, we collected 139 strains (meat, n = 25; dairy, n = 10; vegetable, n = 8; seafood, n = 14; mixed food, n = 4; and food processing environments, n = 78), mostly isolated in Ireland, and subjected them to whole-genome sequencing. These strains were compared to 25 Irish clinical isolates and 4 well-studied reference strains. Core genome and pan-genome analysis confirmed a highly clonal and deeply branched population structure. Multilocus sequence typing showed that this collection contained a diverse range of strains from L. monocytogenes lineages I and II. Several groups of isolates with highly similar genome content were traced to single or multiple food business operators, providing evidence of strain persistence or prevalence, respectively. Phenotypic screening assays for tolerance to salt stress and resistance to acid stress revealed variants within several clonal complexes that were phenotypically distinct. Five of these phenotypic outliers were found to carry mutations in the sigB operon, which encodes the stress-inducible sigma factor sigma B. Transcriptional analysis confirmed that three of the strains that carried mutations in sigB, rsbV, or rsbU had reduced SigB activity, as predicted. These strains exhibited increased tolerance to salt stress and displayed decreased resistance to low pH stress. Overall, this study shows that loss-of-function mutations in the sigB operon are comparatively common in field isolates, probably reflecting the cost of the general stress response to reproductive fitness in this pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Food is an important part of older people's life contributing to their physiological and mental well-being and to their satisfaction with life. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors that contribute to the satisfaction with food-related life of Irish community-dwelling adults older than 55 years. Methods A mixed methods approach was employed. Quantitative data were collected through a survey which tested how socio-demographic characteristics, food habits, mood and self-perceived health were correlated (Spearman correlation) with the 5 items from the satisfaction with food-related life (SWFL) questionnaire. Qualitative data were collected through open-ended questions which investigated the factors determining food satisfaction levels of the 81 adults (54 women) older than 55 years who participated in the study. Results The highest score (4.3/5) was given to the item from the SWFL questionnaire: "F ood and meals are very important elements in my life" , and was regardless of gender, age and marital status of the participants. In contrast, the lowest score (3.9/5) was given to the item "M y life in relation to food and meals is ideal ". Spearman's correlation revealed that fruit consumption was positively correlated " With regard to food, the conditions of my life are excellent " (rho=0.29, p<0.05). The open-ended questions showed that sensory appeal was the most popular term related to food satisfaction levels. Conclusion Meals and food play an important role in older adults' life; however, participants did not consider their life in relation to meals and food as ideal. Therefore, strategies need to be employed to improve food and meal experience for community-dwelling older adults to keep them healthy for longer. Food industry should focus on developing nutritious and sensory-appealing food for the older consumers. Finally, the finding that consumption of fruit leads to satisfaction with food-related life could be used as a health promotion message to change eating behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This project quantified the impact that voluntary reformulation efforts of the food industry had on the Irish population's nutrient intake. Nutrient composition data on reformulated products were collected from 14 major food companies for two years, 2005 and 2012. Probabilistic intake assessments were performed using the Irish national food consumption surveys as dietary intake data. The nutrient data were weighted by market shares replacing existing food composition data for these products. The reformulation efforts assessed, significantly reduced mean energy intakes by up to 12 kcal/d (adults), 15 kcal/d (teens), 19 kcal/d (children) and 9 kcal/d (pre-schoolers). Mean daily fat intakes were reduced by up to 1.3 g/d, 1.3 g/d, 0.9 g/d and 0.6 g/d, saturated fat intakes by up to 1.7 g/d, 2.3 g/d, 1.8 g/d and 1 g/d, sugar intakes by up to 1 g/d, 2 g/d, 3.5 g/d and 1 g/d and sodium intakes by up to 0.6 g/d, 0.5 g/d, 0.2 g/d, 0.3 g/d for adults, teenagers, children and pre-school children, respectively. This model enables to assess the impact of industry reformulation amongst Irish consumers' nutrient intakes, using consumption, food composition and market share data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of an Ecological Approach to health and including Health in All Policies warrants inter-sectoral and transdisciplinary collaboration to improve health determinants and reduce health inequities. Agriculture policies, which greatly influence food production and its environmental impacts as well as food availability and dietary consumption, are therefore of interest to public health. Increasing rates of non-communicable diseases linked to diets containing high levels of processed foods, increasing numbers of households unable to access nutritious food and the environmental consequences of the food system are amongst the major health challenges of today, both globally and in Ireland. In 2010, Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries published Food Harvest 2020 a roadmap for Irish agriculture for the subsequent decade prepared against a backdrop of rising diet-related ill-health and increasing environmental concerns. This article critically analyses the process of consultation and stakeholder involvement in the development of Food Harvest 2020 from a public health perspective. Publically available documents including submissions to the Food Harvest 2020 consultation process were the primary source of data. This study highlights a distinct absence of public health representation in the process, an avoidance of some key public health challenges and the dominance of a ‘business as usual’ approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of assessing the occurrence of the food-borne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes in the food chain, and therefore the risk of exposure of the human population, is often challenging because of the limited scope of some studies. In this study the occurrence of L. monocytogenes in food from four major food groups, dairy products, meats, seafood and vegetables, and associated food processing environments in Ireland was studied over a three-year period. Fifty-four small food businesses participated in the study and sent both food and environmental samples every 2 months between 2013 and 2015. L. monocytogenes was isolated using the ISO11290 standard method. Confirmation of L. monocytogenes and identification of serogroups were achieved using a multiplex PCR assay, and for some isolates serotype was determined using commercial antisera. Pulsed- field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) analysis was performed on all isolates allowing the relatedness of isolates from different food businesses to be compared nationwide. In total, 86 distinct pulsotypes were identified. The overall occurrence of L. monocytogenes in food samples was 4.2%, while in environmental samples it was 3.8%. In general, the occurrence of L. monocytogenes in food businesses decreased over the course of the study, presumably reflecting increased awareness and vigilance. The majority of the pulsotypes detected were unique to a particular food group (63/86), while only three pulsotypes were found in all four food groups investigated. The highest occurrence in food was found in the meat category (7.5%) while seafood had the lowest rate of occurrence (1.8%). Seventeen of the pulsotypes detected in the study were persistent, where persistence was defined as repeated isolation from a single facility with a minimum time interval of 6 months. Using PFGE, 11 of the pulsotypes identified in this study were indistinguishable from those of 11 clinical isolates obtained from patients in Ireland over the last 4 years, highlighting the fact that these pulsotypes are capable of causing disease. Overall, the study shows the diversity of L. monocytogenes strains in the Irish food chain and highlights the ability of many of these strains to persist in food processing environments. The finding that a significant proportion of these pulsotypes are also found in clinical settings highlights the need for continued vigilance by food producers, including frequent sampling and typing of isolates detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The policy environment for the Irish agri-food sector could change rapidly in the coming decade. A potentially positive factor will be the elimination of milk quotas in 2015, although a potentially negative factor will be further trade liberalisation and increased import competition. These changes come on top of the move to decouple direct aids to farmers in 2005 as part of the Mid-Term Review of the EU's Common Agricultural Policy agreed in 2003. This paper examines these reforms and their impacts on the Irish economy and income distribution using a CGE model particularly rich in detail on the agri-food sectors, differentiated household groups, and agricultural policy instruments including their links to productive factors and households. The results suggest that the past and projected changes in the policy environment have, in sum, a small positive impact on GDP and household income. However, the gains and losses are unequally distributed across sectors and household groups due to the highly differentiated distribution of support and protection. Although all households generally gain from the sequence of policy reforms in the long run, some experience strong adverse effects from particular reforms and in the medium term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodbome pathogen that causes listeriosis, a relatively rare but life-threatening disease primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of L. monocytogenes in the seafood processing industry in the Republic of Ireland. The occurrence of L. monocytogenes was determined by regular sampling of both food samples and processing environment swabs at eight seafood processing facilities over two calendar years. All samples were analyzed by the International Organization for Standardization 11290-1 standard method, and the isolates were characterized by PCR, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, serotyping, and the occurrence of some genes related to survival under stress (SSI-1, Tn67&5, and bcrABC). A prevalence of 2.5% in 508 samples (433 environmental swabs and 75 food samples) was found. From the isolates obtained, eight different pulsed-field gel electrophoresis profiles were identified, two occurring in more than one facility and one occurring in food and the environment. Five of the eight pulsotypes identified contained at least one of the three stress survival-related genes tested. The tolerance of the isolates to benzalkonium chloride, a representative quaternary ammonium compound, was also examined and ranged from 5.5 ± 0.5 to 8.5 ± 0.5 ppm of benzalkonium chloride. To evaluate the ability of smoked salmon to support the growth of L. monocytogenes, including the T4 widespread pulsotype that was isolated, a challenge test was performed on cold-smoked salmon obtained from two separate producers. The results showed clearly that both types of smoked salmon supported the growth of L. monocytogenes. Although occurrence of L. monocytogenes on seafood was low, this study showed that the smoked salmon used in this study can support the growth of L. monocytogenes; therefore, vigilance is required in the processing facilities to reduce the associated risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of L. ivanovii in foods and food processing environments in Ireland, to track persistence, and to characterize the disease causing potential of the isolated strains. A total of 2,006 samples (432 food samples and 1,574 environmental swabs) were collected between March 2013 and March 2014 from 48 food business operators (FBOs) belonging to different production sectors (dairy, fish, meat, and fresh-cut vegetable). Six of the forty-eight FBOs had samples positive for L. ivanovii on at least one sampling occasion. L. ivanovii was present in fifteen samples (fourteen environmental samples and one food sample). All but one of those positive samples derived from the dairy sector, where L. ivanovii prevalence was 1.7%. Six distinguishable pulsotypes were obtained by PFGE analysis, with one pulsotype being persistent in the environment of a dairy food business. Sequence analysis of the sigB gene showed that fourteen isolates belonged to L. ivanovii subsp. londoniensis, while only one isolate was L. ivanovii subsp. ivanovii. Cell invasion assays demonstrated that the majority of L. ivanovii strains were comparable to L. monocytogenes EGDe in their ability to invade CACO-2 epithelial cells whilst four isolates had significantly higher invasion efficiencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how consumers react to what is happening as a crisis evolves is crucial for those charged with risk management and risk communication. Responsibility, blame and accountability are important concepts in any crisis, particularly when consumer confidence has been damaged. In this article, we examine to what extent, and to what effect, responsibility, blame and accountability figure in consumer reactions in the immediate aftermath of a food crisis. The data we draw on in this article is derived from an online engagement study that took place in ‘real time’ as the crisis unfolded. Through this study, we were able to explore how consumers responded to the adulteration of processed beef products with horsemeat in early 2013 in Ireland and the UK. We found that consumers attributed causal responsibility and allocated blame for the adulteration to three factors: the deliberately deceitful practices of the food industry, the complexity of the food supply chain and demand from (other) consumers for cheap food. We found that consumers were willing to begin the process of rebuilding their confidence in the food system and accountability was viewed as the primary means for restoring confidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the job creation potential of the four main sectoral growth targets in the Food Harvest 2020 (FH2020) development plan for Irish agriculture, namely the growth targets for milk, beef, sheep and pigs. As well as the direct employment that would be created from an increase in activity in the agriculture sector, there would be a knock-on benefit for the rest of the economy arising out of the linkages between agriculture and other economic sectors, as well as the spending of those additionally employed on goods and services produced in the economy. Commonly this is described as the multiplier impact. Two scenarios are simulated using different assumptions to assess how employment will respond to increased output. The first scenario shows the effects of the four shocks calculated using average or direct employment coefficients. The second scenario calculates the effects using marginal employment coefficients estimated using an econometric model of the output-employment relationship. Our results are sensitive to the choice of coefficients used to simulate the employment potential of the FH2020 targets. Based on our preferred scenario using marginal employment coefficients, we estimate that achieving the FH2020 targets will create at least an additional 16,500 jobs in the Irish economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Set within a discourse of biosecurity and biopolitics, and noting the rise of neoliberal approaches in food safety governance processes, this paper examines the landscape of Irish food risk governance 10 years on from the formation of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI). Utilising a theoretical lens predicated on the interplay between neoliberal and biosecurity ideals and empirical data from qualitative research conducted with food industry stakeholders, the role, motivations, impact and performance of this institution of security are interrogated and assessed. Adding an institutional dimension to broader environmental security debates, this focus on the FSAI also allows the exploration of a complex geography of power and constraints through a discussion of the Authority's scalar relations to other actors in the food risk arena. Expanding existing FSA literature from a focus on establishment to a qualitative evaluation of FSA operating logics, performance and impact, the FSAI appears to represent an institution that is neither wholly neoliberal in its approach nor solely preoccupied with biosecurity concerns. Instead, findings suggest an institution that operates at the interface of these ideals, demonstrating (and fluctuating between) characteristics of both security logics. The paper concludes outlining the need for further comparative research regarding the conditions under which different security logics are employed in (and impact on) food safety securitisation regimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on the proceedings of a one-day symposium organized by Atlantia Food Contract Research Organisation (CRO) is presented. Topics include how to conduct a clinical trial, regulation of health and nutritional claims and useful industry case studies and practical support services for clinical trials.

Foodborne pathogens can attach to, and survive on, food contact surfaces for long periods by forming a biofilm. Salmonella enterica is the second most common cause of foodborne illness in Ireland. The ability of S. enterica to form a biofilm could contribute to its persistence in food production areas, leading to cross-contamination of products and surfaces. Arising from a large foodborne outbreak of S. enterica serovar Agona associated with a food manufacturing environment, a hypothesis was formulated that the associated Salmonella Agona strain had an enhanced ability to form a biofilm relative to other S. enterica. To investigate this hypothesis, 12 strains of 5. enterica, encompassing three 5. enterica serovars, were assessed for the ability to form a biofilm on multiple food contact surfaces. All isolates formed a biofilm on the contact surfaces, and there was no consistent trend for the Salmonella Agona outbreak strain to produce a denser biofilm compared with other strains of Salmonella Agona or Salmonella Typhimurium. However, Salmonella Enteritidis biofilm was considerably less dense than Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Agona biofilms. Biofilm density was greater on tile than on concrete, polycarbonate, stainless steel, or glass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing frequency of product recalls within the agri-food industry has led many to question food safety. Research studies also often focus on biological hazards without considering how past, present and emerging risks change over time. We undertake a systematic review of the different biological, operational and chemical hazards within the agri-food industry using a dataset of 2070 registered food recalls in the USA, UK and Republic of Ireland between 2004 and 2010. We show product recalls have become more frequent over time and operational hazards, rather than biological and chemical hazards, are the most frequent recall type within the agri-food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Salmonella is an important foodborne pathogen worldwide and is commonly isolated from pigs and pig products in Ireland. Pigs, reared in an environment free of Salmonella spp. or with low levels of infection, may acquire infection or become contaminated during transport, lairage or post-slaughter. The main objective of this study was to determine the role of the abattoir as a potential factor that contributes to the dissemination of Salmonella spp. in slaughter pigs from herds with a low Salmonella seroprevalence (≤10%). A total of 128 pigs from eight herds were monitored from farm through the slaughter process in three separate abattoirs. The prevalence of Salmonella spp. was determined in samples collected from trucks, lairage pens and the slaughterline before pigs entered, from pigs after slaughter (caecal contents and ileocaecal lymph nodes) and carcass surfaces post-evisceration. Isolates were characterised by serotype, phage type and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) patterns. Of the swabs taken from the trucks, lairage and slaughterline, before the pigs entered, 4.3% (3/70), 80% (64/80) and 16.7% (4/27) were positive for Salmonella spp., respectively. The proportion of pigs showing serological evidence of infection was 3.1% (4/128). Salmonella spp. were isolated from the ileocaecal lymph nodes and caecal contents of 14.8% (19/128) and 11.7% (15/128) of pigs, respectively, and 13/128 (10.2%), 5/128 (3.9%), 2/111 (1.8%) and 8/111 (7.2%) carcass swabs pre wash, post wash, post chill and belly-strip samples, respectively, were Salmonella-positive. There was only slight agreement between serological and bacteriological data at the pig level. Salmonella isolates from 45% of all positive pig samples and 82% of positive carcass samples were indistinguishable, based on PFGE patterns, from salmonellae isolated from the lairage and slaughterline. Based on these results it is concluded that the lairage and the slaughterline provide a substantial source for Salmonella contamination of pigs and carcasses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The sustainability of small and medium]sized enterprises (SMEs) is constantly challenged on todayfs dynamic operating environment. Evolving regulatory trends, difficult economic conditions, and diminishing natural resources, pose serious questions for all players across the food system. Technological innovation, as a means of ensuring future sustainability in the same in the face of such challenges, has been the focus of significant government investment in Ireland. This paper, aims to facilitate a greater understanding of the motivations and barriers influencing the decision by food SMEs to invest in technological innovation emanating from research conducted in publicly]funded research institutes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strategic networking is of crucial importance for innovation in small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) as it enables these companies access external resources and overcome internal constraints. However, SMEs often lack the skills and competencies to engage in and benefit from networks. Consequently SMEs often fail in establishing strategic and efficient networks. To date, there is limited guidance available on the optimal design of such networks. Furthermore, limited guidance is available on the number of networks, and level of engagement therein, that companies should be involved with. Using case studies across a range of formal networks within the food sector in Ireland, insights into the success factors and barriers to network learning are presented, which provide a foundation for such guidelines. Three case studies were selected for analysis in Ireland. Up to ten in-depth interviews were scheduled with the network managers and key informants from the triple helix (i.e. policy, research and industry sectors) within each formal network. Initially, interviewees were identified as a result of a review of secondary sources and personal knowledge of the authors. The snowball sampling technique was then employed to identify additional interviewees within each network. The findings from this study revealed that some formal networks had a strong institutional influence, including significant financial inputs, whilst others had bottom-up origins. Many networks had strong levels of interaction prior to formalisation, which provided solid trust-based foundations. Innovation and/or learning were not the expressed objectives of all networks at the outset. However, interviewees across all three networks felt that positive impacts had been achieved in these areas. Whilst being involved in a broad network can provide access to a wider range of ideas, these case studies suggest that being involved in a smaller, dense network, with high levels of IP protection, may be supportive of high levels of innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A cold-smoked salmon factory was surveyed for a period of 1year (2008–2009) for the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in the processing line, processing environment, personnel, raw materials and product (cold-smoked salmon). The purpose of the study was to determine whether genetically similar strains colonise different environmental niches in the processing factory and thereby determining the possible contamination source or pathways. The processing factory was divided into four zones (1–4) based on the proximity to the samples. The overall prevalence of L. monocytogenes was 24.54% (n =444). The L. monocytogenes contamination pattern was identified by characterising 124 L. monocytogenes isolates (obtained from this survey) by Multiple Locus Variable number tandem repeats Analysis (MLVA). The isolates were divided into 8 MLVA types (Lm a, Lm b, Lm c, Lm d, Lm e, Lm f, Lm g and Lm i). The final product (cold-smoked salmon) was contaminated with two major types of L. monocytogenes; one type originating from the raw material (Lm a) and the other type colonising the production line (Lm c) in zone 1. This suggests that, in addition to the fish processing line, L. monocytogenes contaminated raw material can progress through the production chain and result in contamination of the final product. Each zone had one dominating strain type, thus leading to the hypothesis that specific L. monocytogenes strains may be better adapted to specific environmental niches in the processing factory. The results clearly indicated the problematic sites which were the raw material, cutting board, drains, floor, conveyer belt and slicer/skinner equipment. Although, these areas would be rigorously cleaned before the start of the production, there seems to be the existence of resistant L. monocytogenes strain types. In order to minimise the problem observed in this study, new cleaning and disinfection protocols should be considered. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Food safety is a critical factor in the production of farmhouse cheese. In Ireland the varieties of farmhouse cheese produced reflect a much broader range than those produced commercially and some of these cheese varieties are associated with greater microbiological risk. These include cheese produced from unpasteurised milk and soft ripened cheese such as mould or smear-ripened cheeses which have high pH and relatively short ripening times. The aim of this study was to determine the microbiological quality of farmhouse cheeses in Ireland. Three hundred and fifty one cheese samples, from 15 cheese producers, were analysed for microbiological quality on a monthly basis throughout the year. The analyses included enumeration of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes (using the relevant agars) and enrichment for L. monocytogenes. The cheeses selected were produced from ovine, caprine and bovine milk. Both unpasteurised and pasteurised milk cheeses were sampled and these included hard, semi-hard and soft cheeses, internal/external mould-ripened and smear-ripened cheeses and the cheeses represented different geographic regions. Of the cheeses tested, 94% were free of L. monocytogenes, all were within the EU limits for E. coli and only one cheese variety had S. aureus levels above the recommended numbers for the first 6 months of the year. Due to a modified production process the numbers were within the guidelines for the second six months. The results indicate that Irish farmhouse cheeses are of a high microbiological quality. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aim of this article is to analyze the various factors fueling demand for food-away-from-home in Ireland. The two largest components of this industry, the quick-service sector (fast food and takeaway) and the full-service sector (hotel and restaurant meals), are analyzed using the most recently available Household Budget Survey data for Ireland. Based on a model of household production, the results from a Box-Cox double hurdle model indicate that different variables affect expenditure in each sector in different ways. Income has a greater effect on full-service expenditure than on quick service. Similarly, households that are health conscious indicate a greater preference for full-service meals whereas households with higher time values indicate a greater preference for quick service. Households of a higher social class and those with higher education levels also appear to favor full-service expenditure. In addition, younger, urbanized households favor quick-service meal options. The results emphasize the merits of adopting a disaggregated approach to analyzing food service expenditure patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transformation of industries and industry architectures is approached through a community evolution analysis of two closely related value chains. A longitudinal multilevel data set on the consumer food value chains in Britain and Ireland is analyzed. The analysis highlights the central role of coevolution between members of the value-chain communities, including the related institutional context. Commensalism is explored through its constituent processes of competition and cooperation. Both are seen to act powerfully in shaping change and transformation. The divergence between the two value chains studied bears out the basic evolutionary premise that evolution is constructed, not determined by generic processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper estimates the inefficiencies associated with the regionalisation of the milk quota trade. An optimisation model is developed to estimate the economic value of quota. Quota values are aggregated to derive quota sale and purchase curves under two scenarios: first, where quotas can be traded nationally and second, where the trade of quota is regionally restricted. Quota trade is simulated and the consequent effects on supplier structure estimated. Through the derivation of sectoral cumulative cost curves it is possible to estimate the impact of regionalising quota trade on sector efficiency. The model is solved using National Farm Survey data from Ireland and the inefficiencies of regionalised quota trade in Ireland are estimated at €27 million. The paper concludes by discussing the implications of restricted quota trade, especially in the context of eventual quota removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A strong market orientation and a customer-focused new product process have both been identified as critical new product development success drivers. Five focus groups were conducted at three centres in Ireland between April and May 2003 to evaluate and refine a range of new meal replacement and meal complement beverage concepts. Non-carbonated fruit and yoghurt-based functional beverages for breakfast were most preferred by focus group participants. This study highlighted the role of qualitative market-oriented research methodologies in facilitating consumer interaction with product development personnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Ireland, wastewaters emanating from the food industry typically contain elevated levels of nitrogen and phosphorus before treatment. Two pilot scale studies were performed to determine the feasibility of achieving biological N and P removal on-site at a food ingredients plant. The wastewater treated by the pilot reactors was that which resulted from the day-to-day production in the full-scale food ingredients plant. Both reactors were of the anaerobic/anoxic/oxic (A/A/O) design, however the sizing of the zones was varied in this study. In the first pilot study, while treating a wastewater of the following strength: 1008 mg COD/l; 30.1 mg NH4-N/l and 26.7 mg P/l, removal efficiencies of 93%, 99% and 98% were obtained for COD, NH4-N and P, respectively. In the second study, while operating at reduced hydraulic retention times and lower recycle rates, the pilot plant treated a wastewater of the following strength: 1757 mg COD/l; 62 mg NH4-N/l and 57 mg P/l, with removal efficiencies of 94%, 97% and 75% obtained for COD, NH4-N and P, respectively. This work showed that biological nutrient removal could be successfully applied to treatment of food industry wastewaters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

ABSTRACT The indigenous agri-food sector in the Republic of Ireland has evolved to a stage where Irish companies are firmly implicated in a competitive European and global marketplace. Considerable restructuring of the sector has taken place, the central features of which are identified. One of the consequences has been a shift in the location of food industry employment to the more rural areas. Food chains and related state actions are described under three main product categories: agri-industrial, organic and speciality foods. Small-scale rural enterprises in the latter two categories form the main focus of the paper. Qualitative data from a study of these enterprises are used to discuss their recent growth and their production and marketing patterns, as well as their significance for rural development. They face particular problems in selling their products in a limited domestic market and in a context where more powerful interests are striving for greater efficiencies in food supply chains. The issues are analysed and producer options interpreted in terms of two general models: `incorporation' into the dominant capital-driven and globalizing market systems, or `adaptation' by adhering to more localized and self-controlled supply chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a causal link between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and a range of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cancers. Despite this, no country in the world has reduced its obesity levels because the factors that drive obesity continue unchanged (Swinburn et al., 2019). One systemic driver is corporate influence on the public policy process. The world's largest food and beverage manufacturers engage public relations firms to create a narrative which speaks of corporate cooperation with public health policy, while simultaneously influencing policy making in ways that are favorable to industry. We sought to examine framing as a key strategy in the corporate political activity of food industry actors attempting to resist the introduction of a public health policy. Specifically, we analyzed industry submissions for an Irish government consultation for the proposed introduction of a sugar sweetened beverage (SSB) tax in 2018. We describe how a food product like sugar is framed positively by corporate actors who rely on it as their principal ingredient. Sugar is a good focus from a framing perspective because it is currently undergoing recalibration in the public's imagination - from a benign, nourishing treat in its heyday to a dangerous 'substance' that can contribute to premature mortality. Framing is already well established as a corporate political activity (CPA) to influence public policy (Shelton et al., 2017; Nixon et al., 2015; Darmon et al., 2008). Our research expands this understanding by uncovering four underlying mechanisms used to generate frames – dichotomizing, contesting, equating and cropping. Recognizing these mechanisms could help policy makers, public health professionals and business ethicists to deconstruct any given frame that becomes dominant in corporate discourse, such as 'personal responsibility', 'inadequate exercise', 'freedom' and so on. These mechanisms may also apply to other industries such as alcohol, fossil fuels and tobacco, where hazards from interference in public health strategies are a concern. • Sugar is undergoing a major framing contest. • The process of generating a frame is as relevant as what is pictured inside it. • Four framing mechanisms are used by industry against sugar taxation – dichotomizing, contesting, equating and cropping. • Visibilizing the process of framing exposes meaning mechanisms across contexts, domains and issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the author's views on various issues related to bee keeping in Ireland, highlighting trade body Federation of Irish Bee Keepers Associations' annual week-long workshop on the topic. These issues include the involvement of veterinarians in the bee industry, the impact of honeybee scarcity on the global food sector, and bee diseases. Also examined is the decline in bee populations, the use of pesticides, and the increasing number of telecommunication masts.

The article offers information on several international conferences and events which include the 3rd International European Food and Feed Law Conference 2009 which is going to be held from October 8-9, 2009, Prague, Czech Republic, Food Law Update from March 3, 2009 in Dublin, Ireland and the 2009 CIES International Food Safety Conference from February 4-6 2009 in Barcelona, Spain.

The article examines the need for Irish trade body Veterinary Ireland to uphold food production facilities standards as well as for members to be proactive and report issues that would compromise Ireland's food safety chain.

The author reflects on the improtance of an audit in food production facilities to ensure food safety and hygiene of the industry in Ireland. The outlines the tools and the working conditions of the food production personnel to avoid failure in the food production facility. The author cites the use of an adequate equipment or protective clothing for the workers and auditors inside the facility.

The article reports that veterinary data must support the claims of Ireland's food and drink exports by providing data about the health of their herds.

The article reports on the launch of the second phase of the gastrointestinal health research centre and partnership Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre (APC) by Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Conor Lenihan, in 2009. Institutions involved in the project are mentioned including the University College Cork (UCC) in Ireland, Teagasc and industry partners Alimentary Health Limited and GlaxoSmithKline. Lenihan states the role of the research center in exploring commercial opportunities in both the functional food and pharmaceutical industry.

The article reports on the response of the Irish Food Safety Authority (FSA) towards the rising concerns of the dioxin pork crisis in Ireland. The FSA has been advising concerned individuals about the health risk and implications of dioxins and the best method of disposing dioxin-affected pork products. Moreover, the FSA has received over 2,600 calls from worried consumers, retailers, and individuals who are working in the pork industry.

The article presents a perspective about the Irish veterinary profession towards the invasion of a number of such English food ventures. It is interesting to examine the concept of franchising and seek to determine whether it is a help or hindrance to the profession. When hunger strikes and all that will suffice is a good old fashioned, meaty hamburger, the customer is faced with two, strikingly alternative options.

The article reports on the findings of the 2007 annual report released by Irish agriculture and food development authority Teagasc. According to Teagasc Chairman Dr. Tom O'Dwyer, the coming years provide many challenges for all involved in agriculture, the food industry and the overall rural community. The report contains major achievements and developments for the agriculture research, food research, and training and development sectors.

The article reports that Keenan, diet feeding systems manufacturer has launched a new €8 million manufacturing and R&D center at Borris Co. in Carlow, Ireland. According to the report, the center was officially opened by European Commissioner Charlie McCreevy on July 23, 2007. The company has introduced delegates to a new hi-fibre system of sustainable farming and food production.

The article reports on the opening of a new Teagasc Food Industry Training and Conference facility in Ireland. The new facility is stated to be based at Teagasc's existing Ashtown Food Research Center, which currently provides employment for almost 130 scientists, technicians, research students and support staff. Moreover, the facility technical and specialist food training to technologists and managers in the food industry.

When Ireland''s largest farmer-owned food company was looking to improve the sludge handling capability at its effluence treatment plant, particularly the addition of quicklime, Seepex''s engineers came up with a customised solution. This not only controlled the dosing of quicklime, but also could discharge the effluent into multiple locations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Landfeeds Environmental, a specialist waste disposal company operating in the centre of Ireland, has found a solution to the problem of waste food product disposal: inject it into soil for use as fertilizer. The company called upon Seepex to help. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]