Door to door fish sales warning
Denbighshire’s Public Protection officers are warning consumers across the county to beware of fish salesmen trying to persuade householders to buy fresh fish.
There have been reports to Denbighshire Trading Standards and North Wales Police in the last week of traders selling door to door, asking residents, including older people, if they would like to buy fish.
Emlyn Jones, Public Protection Manager said:
“We have concerns regarding the matter, especially as to whether the fish sellers are registered as a food business operator which is a legal requirement for all food businesses, and indeed if they are adhering to all food safety and hygiene regulations which applies to such businesses, including the display of the relevant food hygiene rating for the business.
“When buying fish from door to door salesmen, the purchaser very often has no way of knowing how the fish have been stored and whether they are safe to eat. These type of sellers commonly use non-refrigerated vans, and there may be issues with the labelling, quality and descriptions of the fish and they may pressurise residents to buy more than they actually need.
“As with any doorstep caller we would urge people not to be tempted to buy and ask them to leave. The best place to buy fish is from a reputable fishmonger at an established shop or stall or even with a trader with a regular prearranged round”
Anyone wanting advice on doorstep trading, or to report an incident, can contact the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 04 05 06 (03454 04 05 05 for Welsh language) which gives free, independent and impartial advice on all consumer issues, or the police on 101. Any person feeling intimidated or threatened by any doorstep seller should shut the door and call the police emergency number 999.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email News@News.Wales
