London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972
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Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
Croydon 1943
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Croydon]
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| No. Sample. | Adulteration or Deficiency. | Remarks. |
|---|---|---|
| 1914. Milk | Although the milk solids other than milk fat of the sample were not below the minimum of the Regulations, the freezing point indicates the presence of a small proportion of added water. | - |
| 1328. Coffee essence with chicory. | This contained 900 parts per million benzoic acid where only 450 parts per million are permitted. | Makers communicated with, and they stated that additional benzoic acid was now being used as a preservative than heretofore, owing to shortage of sugar. In this case the limit had been exceeded by an inexperienced employee and steps were being taken to prevent a recurrence. Further samples proved genuine. |
| 1218. Flour, batter | Contained large number of living mites, and was unfit for human consumption. | Article and balance of stock at once withdrawn from sale. |
| 1207. Jelly crystals | Contained 5 parts per million arsenious oxide. Under the regulations, there should not be more than 1.4 parts per million. | An attempt was made to purchase further samples, but it was found that the original stock was exhausted and a sample procured proved genuine. |
| 1947. Gin | The alcholic strength of the sample was 41.9 degrees under proof. | Court case. Fine and costs £12 17s. Od. |
| 603. Vinegar | Deficient in acetic acid. | Further samples proved genuine. |
Public Health (Preservatives, etc., in Food) Regulations, 1925 to 1927.
During the course of inspections of food shops particular
attention is paid to the above Regulations regarding the marking
of foodstuffs to which the Regulations apply.