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fruit but cultures upon various media for the separation both
of bacteria and moulds failed to produce any growth at all.
We are, therefore, of opinion that the defective cans are
"hydrogen swells"; they are not blown by reason of any
bacterial contamination.
The sound tin has also been examined. No gas was found
in it and the can was much less etched. The fruit contained
in it, which showed only a faint reaction for iron was in quite
good condition. We are, therefore, of opinion that all the
fruit is fit for consumption inasmuch as there is no bacterial
spoilage, but that the 'blown' tins are in a somewhat unsatisfactory
condition from the commercial point of view as the
presence of traces of iron are likely to produce discolourations
in use and so be the subject of complaints."
The term "hydrogen swell" used in this report is a popular
one at the moment, but in my opinion it merely serves to cloud
the issue and "darken counsel."
The magistrate having satisfied himself by personal inspection
-and it may be mentioned that two stipendiary magistrates
inspected the tins—that the goods were unsound, condemned
them as being unfit for food and ordered their destruction. An
expert sent by the London Chamber of Commerce on behalf of the
owner also examined 40 cartons containing 240 tins and stated
that he was satisfied.
The goods were subsequently destroyed.
PUBLIC HEALTH (IMPORTED FOOD) REGULATIONS
1925,1933.
One hundred and eight samples have been taken during the
year by the Wharves Inspectors. Of this number 8 samples were
submitted to ascertain the composition, 3 to ascertain the composition
and for the presence of preservative, 3 for the presence
of formalin, 20 for the presence of preservative, 8 for the presence
of preservative and metals, 3 for special purposes, and the remainder
for the presence of metals.
In addition, one sample of dark raw sugar was taken for
bacteriological examination.