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99
ANALYSIS OF FOOD AND DRUGS.
During the year 1895, more samples have been purchased
and submitted to the Public Analyst for analysis than in
any previous year. Taking the last ten years (1885—94),
the annual average as to number of samples taken is 341
of which 55.9 (i.e., 16.4%) were found on analysis to be
adulterated. The average annual number of summonses
issued is 39.9, with the annual average of 39 4 convictions
and 16.5 cautions. The annual average amount of penalties
is £73 8s. 4d., and of costs, £25 1s. 8d. Comparing those
averages with the actual numbers and figures for 1895,
some idea of the extra amount of work that has been done
in this particular Department will be gained, for in 1895
500 samples were purchased, of which 87 (i.e., 17.4%)
were adulterated. In connection with these adulterated
samples, 64 summonses were issued, and in 23 cases the
vendors were cautioned, with the result that there were
62 convictions, with £149 15s. 0d. in penalties, and
£41 18s. 0d. in costs.
Full details are given as to the various foods and drugs
obtained, with the percentages of adulterations in each case,
not only during the year 1895, but also for each of the
previous ten years (1885—94).
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