Dutch health and safety watchdog NVWA is going to carry out more checks on fishmongers following an investigation in which two in three were found to be in breach of food safety rules.

In October and November, the NVWA carried out controls at 105 fishmongers throughout the country. In total, 72 had not complied with the rules. Half fell short of allergen information requirements and 42% failed to store and heat or cool fish properly.

In 30% of cases, fridges, cutting boards and other tools were contaminated or badly maintained. Rats and mice droppings were found in 15% of the premises.

Some 66 fishmongers were issued with an official warning and one had to shut up shop altogether.

Of the 66, 54 said they had taken measures to improve hygiene, of which 48 were confirmed by the NVWA to be up to scratch. The remaining fishmongers are awaiting the results of another inspection.

The fishmongers’ trade organisation VNV said it has made a plan to improve food safety, focused on raising awareness and improving practices.