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There are two instances requiring especial notice, the first is
the case of Mr. Hope, of 6, Bermondsey new road; here that which
was a licensed slaughter house has been converted into a stable, and
there is a temporary ahed erected for slaughtering purposes, for
which it is most unfitted—Pigs were also kept in the yard, and there
was an accumulation of dung. At Mr. Worleya' 11, Star corner, on
the morning of Saturday, the 6th instant, I visited his slaughtering
place, and found it in a filthy condition, uncleansed of the blood,
offal and muck of the previous day's killing. In addition to this
most objectionable condition, there was a still graver cause of complaint,
in the presence of a quarter of mutton and of the carcase of a
sheep, both diseased and unfit for human food. Mr. Worley consented
at first to their seizure and destruction, —subsequently however
he refused, and the Magistrate at the Southwark Police Court condemned
them. The carcase weighed 25½ lbs. and the quarter 4½ lbs.
On inspecting the slaughter house of Mr. Phipps, Long lane, it wass
found to be moderately clean and in a fair condition, but requiring
whitewashing, and some portion of the pavement to be relaid. I perceived
however a faint odour of a peculiar character, which I mentioned
to Mr Phipps. This, on further inspection, was found to proceed from
a large tub containing a quantity of pork,—legs, sides and heads.
This was being soaked in water, which was tinged with blood;
when a portion of this meat was removed its real character was discovered.
I know of no phrase adequately to describe it, —anything
so bad or rotten intended for human food, I never before met with.
To report thus pains me—but on a former occasion I cautioned
Mr. Phipps, and then earnestly remons rated with him on the gross
impropriety of exposing unsound and diseased meat for sale, for
human consumption.
Gratifying however is it to be able to turn away from what is
so loathsome, to that which is beneficial and creditable. Throughout
the length and breadth of a large and populous Parish, the
great majority of the Butchers sell sound, wholesome, and most
excellent meat, suited to the character and wants of our population.
And we are not without proof, that in Bermondsey meat of the
highest class can be procured, challenging comparison with any in
the metropolis.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your obedient faithful Servant,
JOHN CHALLICE, M.D.
Medical Officer of Health.