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‘There can be no compromise on food safety and consumers’ health has to be protected - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2 - 2009
Question 2
‘There can be no compromise on food safety and consumers’ health has to be protected. Small businesses can produce safe food of high quality but their viability is t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:‘There can be no compromise on food safety and consumers’ health has to be protected - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2 - 2009
Step 1
Discuss the role of small businesses and home enterprises within the Irish food industry.
Answer
Small businesses and home enterprises play a vital role in the Irish food industry by:
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Creating Employment: These ventures often provide new job opportunities in local communities, helping to drive local economies.
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Market Adaptability: They can quickly adapt to changing market trends and consumer needs by identifying and targeting niche markets. This agility helps them to stay relevant in a competitive landscape.
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Quality of Products: Small businesses tend to offer high-quality products by focusing on artisanal methods and sourcing local ingredients, which enhances consumer trust and loyalty.
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Promoting Ireland’s Reputation: By creating unique and safe food products, they contribute to enhancing Ireland's reputation as a producer of high-quality food and drink.
Step 2
Write a profile of an “added value” food you have studied.
Answer
For this question, let's profile a well-known Irish artisan cheese, such as 'Durrus Cheese'.
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Name of Food: Durrus Cheese
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Stages of Production:
- The cheese is made from raw milk sourced from local dairy farms.
- It undergoes pasteurization followed by curdling and draining the whey.
- The cheese is then aged in a controlled environment to develop its unique flavor.
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Packaging: The cheese is typically packaged in biodegradable wax wraps, which help preserve its quality while being environmentally friendly.
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Labelling: Labelling includes detailed information about the ingredients, the milk source, allergen warnings, and is often marked with certifications like 'Irish Artisan', which appeals to health-conscious consumers.
Step 3
Give a brief account of the role of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI).
Answer
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) plays a crucial role in ensuring food safety in Ireland. It is responsible for:
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Coordination of Enforcement: The FSAI coordinates the enforcement of food safety regulations across Ireland, ensuring compliance among food businesses.
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Guiding Stakeholders: It provides guidance to stakeholders, including government agencies, the food industry, and consumers regarding food safety standards.
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Monitoring and Surveillance: The authority conducts regular inspections and monitoring of food premises to ensure adherence to safety regulations.
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Training and Support: The FSAI offers training and support to food businesses on best practices and compliance processes, thereby promoting a culture of food safety.