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that in a Borough of the size and importance of Camberwell it
is highly desirable that there should be at least one whole-time
food inspector.
Bakehouses.
At the end of 1924 there were 148 bakehouses in the
Borough, of which 48 were underground bakehouses. 499
inspections were made by the sanitary inspectors, and 24 notices
(mostly dealing with limewashing) were served. With regard to
the wrapping of bread, touched on in my last report, legislation
has not yet been introduced on this point.
Restaurants, Eating Houses, etc.
228 inspections were made of the 153 restaurants, eating
houses and fried fish shops on the register, particular attention
being directed to the kitchens and places where the food was
prepared. 20 notices were served.
Ice Cream Shops and Stalls.
The number of ice cream vendors on the register at the end
of the year was 331, but a large proportion of these did not make
or sell any cream owing to the cold, wet weather experienced
last summer. The inspectors made 467 visits, and notices were
served in 7 instances.
Preservatives in Food.
The recommendations contained in the report of the Departmental
Committee appointed to inquire into the use of preservatives
in foodstuffs will, if adopted, result in the practical
suppression of the use of preservatives. It is to be hoped that
Regulations putting into force the recommendations of the Committee
will soon be issued by the Ministry of Health.
Handling of Foodstuffs.
The danger of spreading communicable disease from infected
persons handling foodstuffs is becoming more and more apparent
to the general public. Health officials have for a long time
considered that physical examination of all individuals coming
into close contact with food in restaurants, hotels, boarding
houses, bakeries and other places in which food is prepared, or
sold ready for consumption, is necessary for the protection of the
public. At present all food establishments are subject to
inspection by the sanitary inspectors, but this inspection is only
directed towards the correction of insanitary conditions. All
employers of labour in such places should be compelled to insist
upon periodical examination and health certificates from
employés.