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44
The increase in the number of adulterated samples is due, mainly,
to the fact that 22 samples of tinned peas were analysed for the
purpose of ascertaining whether a preservative was present or not. As
will be noted, in 16 cases enumerated in the following table, sulphate
of copper was found to be present in quantity varying from one to two
and-a-half grains per lb.
Summonses were issued in the first case against the vendors of
samples No. 155, 157 and 162. Sample No. 157 contained 1 grain of
copper sulphate per lb.; this was the first case that was brought before
the Hampstead Bench of Magistrates and the summons was dismissed
Following this dismissal the other two summonses were withdrawn.
The position as preservatives in food is unsatisfactory from
all points of view, especially that of the Sanitary Authorities and the
traders. There are, of course, many Sanitary Authorities administering
the Acts, and there are many Justices of the Peace adjudicating
upon them, and a variety of standards seem to pertain. In view of the
widespread practice of adding preservatives to foodstuffs, I am of
opinion it would be of great benefit to all concerned if some legal
decision could be arrived at as to what preservatives should be added to
food, and if any, to what extent. Matters would be very much facilitated
if the findings of the Royal Commission on the use of Preservatives
were made legally enforceable.