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1904]
236
These analyses of 832 milks show (hat the farmers, if they had so chosen
could have abstracted 23.9 per cent. of the fat from their milks, and added 30
per cent. of water, and would then have met all the requirements of the official
standard. It is a matter for thankfulness that they are honest, for a great
temptation is placed in their way, and for the matter of that in the way of all
milk vendors.
Further particulars respecting milk are given in Tables CXXIX and CXXX.
Butter.—There were 197 samples examined, of which 13 or 6.6 per cent.
were adulterated, as compared with 7.2 per cent. in 1903, and 15.7 per cent. in
1902. There has, therefore, been a considerable decrease during the last two
years in the adulteration of this important article of food. Genuine Colonial
butter is now so cheap that possibly it has had an effect in lessening this form
of fraud. No sample was returned as containing more than 16 per cent. of
water, which is the maximum amount allowed under the Sale of Butter
Regulations.
Margarine.—53 samples were purchased, of which 11 or 20.7 per cent.
per cent. were sold contrary to the piovisions of the Margarine Act.
GROCERIES.
197 samples were purchased, of which 18, or 9.1 per cent., were adulterated.
They were as follows:—
No of
Samples.
No.
Adulterated
Percentage
Adulterated.
Percentage
Adulterated
in 1903.
Coffee
28
6
21.4
15.4
Cocoa
7
...
...
7.1
Sugar, Demarara
3
2
66. 6
45.9
Pepper (White)
7
...
...
12.5
Sago
1
...
...
...
Mustard
8
...
...
...
Arrowroot
4
...
...
...
Vinegar (Malt)
2
...
...
11.1
Ginger (Ground)
7
...
...
...
Baking Powder
11
...
...