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trade was in progress. The water, upon examination, proved to be
of the nature of diluted sewage, and contained an enormous number
and variety of bacteria, shewing that it had been contaminated
in various ways. Microscopic examinations of melted ice-cream,
made by subsequent observers, shewed the presence of epithelial
6cales from skin and mucous membrane, of flue, dust, human hairs,
fibres of various textile materials, and the eggs, and bodies of vermin.
There appear to be four main sources of contamination—
1. The insanitary condition and filthy surroundings of the
premises in which the manufacture is carried on.
2. Unclean vessels, or the careless admixture of the rough
impure ice in the tub with the contents of the cylinder
while the process of freezing is going on.
3. The uncleanly habits of the venders, who have been
frequently seen to wipe their sweaty bodies with the towel
provided for the glasses.
4. The method of sale, or rather of serving the cream, from
shallow glasses, out of which it is licked; these glasses are
sometimes washed after use in the filthy water previously
spoken of, but more often they are simply refilled with
cream just as they are left by the tongues of the little
purchasers, and if the children happen to be convalescent
from scarlet fever or diphtheria, the germs of infectious
diseases may easily be transferred from one child to another.
The filthy conditions under which this trade is carried on, and
the beastly habits of the venders undoubtedly constitute a grave
source of danger to the public. I have repeatedly urged in previous
reports, that all premises where food is prepared, stored or sold, for
the use of man, should be registered, and periodically inspected,
just as dairies and milk shops are at present. It would not be difficult
for Parliament to extend the powers of the London County
Council and the local authorities in this direction.
Regulations could then be drawn up and enforced:—
(a) For the good sanitary condition of premises where the
food of man is prepared and sold.