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0.4 per cent. of total protein and that the greater part of the flavouring
was due to salt and monosodium glutamate. The product was
of foreign origin and considerable correspondence passed between
the Council and the importers concerning the labelling which was
considered in the circumstances to be misleading.
Shortly before the preparation of this report a letter was received
stating that alterations to the label were being considered.
Vinegar
Two samples of vinegar were found, upon analysis, to be nonbrewed
condiment. In addition one of the samples was deficient in
strength to the extent of 15 per cent. of the minimum quantity of
4 per cent. of acetic acid proper to any kind of vinegar. Both vendors
received warning letters. It is rather surprising after the publicity
given to this matter in the trade papers that the practice of selling
non-brewed condiment as malt vinegar, and at malt vinegar prices,
still persists.
OTHER INSPECTIONS
Pet Shops
Four persons are licensed to keep pet shops in the district. Visits
are made periodically to the premises and in each case the business
has been found to be carried on in a satisfactory manner. The only
matter which required stressing was the importance of a supply of
water and sand being always available. There is no doubt that pet
shops are now very popular. They attract the public, particularly
on Saturdays when children are out with their parents, and the
danger of fire from a dropped cigarette end, in premises where a
considerable amount of straw or hay is used for animal bedding,
must always be considered.
Home Counties (Music and Dancing) Licensing Act, 1926
Hertfordshire (Music and Dancing) Regulations, 1956
Twenty-four premises were inspected at the request of the Hertfordshire
County Council before the issue by that authority of
licences for music and dancing.
In four cases the attention of the persons making application
for the licences were drawn to defects in the sanitary conveniences
and in each instance the work required was carried out without the
necessity for further action.
INFESTATIONS
Rodent Control
During the year 273 complaints of rats and mice have been received.
All complaints have been visited and in addition premises neighbouring
the houses from which the original complaints were received
have been visited where necessary. In consequence 365 properties
have been inspected for rat and mice infestation during the year.
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