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37
Legal proceedings were taken against several firms in respect of fish
products which contained added preservative, contrary to the Public
Health (Preservatives, etc., in Food) Regulations, 1925-1953.
A prosecution was taken against a restaurant company for applying
a false description to a sandwich which was stated to contain smoked
salmon. On examination it was found to contain artificially dyed
smoked saithe.
Proceedings were also taken in respect of two glasses of hot milk.
They had been heated by the injection of steam, and in consequence the
milk contained added water.
Samples of spirits were also found to contain added water, and legal
proceedings ensued.
A summary of the results of legal proceedings taken during 1958,
which include the above, will be found later in this report (page 48).
Several consignments of apples bearing deposits of lead and arsenic
in excess of the recommended limits, arrived in Covent Garden during
the year from overseas. Arrangements were made for them to be
washed and repacked before being placed on the market for sale.
A number of investigations were made as the result of complaints
from members of the public alleging that foodstuffs purchased by them
contained foreign matter, or were otherwise unfit for consumption.
Where necessary, action was taken.
Food Hygiene Regulations, 1955
The provisions of these Regulations continue to operate successfully
in the maintenance of satisfactory conditions in food premises in the
City.
In some cases an explanation of the Regulations is hampered by
language difficulties, for there are a large number of foreign nationals
who work in the food trade in Westminster. It has been suggested to
certain proprietors that Part III of the Regulations, which relates to
persons engaged in the handling of food, should be printed in the
languages understood by the staff. In this way the full implication of
their responsibilities under this section can be understood.
In order that new owners or occupiers of food premises can be aware
of the requirements of the Regulations, before any alteration is undertaken
at existing premises, an early recommendation is made suggesting
a consultation between the Public Health Inspector and the new occupier.
The opportunity is then provided for a discussion of proposals, including
the type of catering or sale of food to be undertaken. The provisions
of Part III of the Regulations can also be made known.
This procedure has been found to be greatly appreciated by the
proprietors of new businesses, and has resulted in the Council's requirements
being met at the outset, and in a more satisfactory manner.