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165
Analytical Laboratory,
Town Hall, Partington, W.
13th January, 1915.
An abstract of the year's analytical work may be of interest. No
less than 512 samples have been analysed comprising Milk, 272; Butter,
121; Lard, 43; Cocoa, 19; Coffee, 18; Cheese, 14; Cream, 13;
Margarine, 5; Epsom Salts, 2; and 1 each of Sausages, Pork Pie,
Shrimp Paste, Olive Oil ajid Lemon Squash.
Of these, 22 samples of Milk, or 8 per cent. ; 4 samples of Butter,
or 3⅓ per cent.; 1 of Cream, or 7½ per cent.; 2 of Cocoa, or 10 per
cent, proved to be adulterated, while the samples of Sausages, Pork
Pie and Shrimp Paste contained preservatives, though not in sufficient
quantities to warrant prosecution.
Taking all the articles together, 6¼ per cent, of them were found
to be adulterated; this is rather larger than the average for the previous
year, which was 3¾ per cent. This slight increase is due, I think, to
the taking of test samples; by this method the sources of adulteration
are found and the fraudulent vendor is not put upon his guard.
ALF. W. STOKES, F.C S., F.I.C.,
Public Analyst.