London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Camberwell 1961

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Camberwell.

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occurrence is strictly controlled, rise to a dangerous
level. For many years it has been the practice to examine
samples of food for possible contamination with lead and
other toxic metals, but this is the first time that legal
standards applicable to foods in general have been laid
down.
Proposals for new Regulations concerning preservatives,
bread, flour and soft drinks were published and it is likely
that these will be implemented in the near future. The
first of these are particularly important, since several
new preservatives will be permitted.
The poor quality, particularly with regard to non-fatty
solids content, of some of the milk sold, especially during
the winter and early spring continue to give cause for
concern; it is satisfactory to note that this matter is
now the subject of Ministerial consideration.
Attention continued to be given to the composition
of canned foods, particularly meat products and the use
of artificial colours. The labelling and composition of
pre-packed foods is also a matter to which close attention
must be given, and from time to time manufacturers or
packers have been advised as to the correct labelling of
their products. Particular regard is paid to the vitamin
content, and in this and other aspects of food analyses
close liaison is maintained with the public health departments
of other boroughs. This procedure obviates the need
for duplication of analysis.