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79
FLOUR.
17. Actual adulteration could not be certified with respect to the
two samples of Flour reported as inferior. (See paragraph 3.) These
samples contained slight traces of Nitrites, the amount in each case being
under 1 part per million, which is the limit suggested for Nitrites in Flour
in the Report of the Local Government Board, No. 49. These samples
had probably been treated with Nitrous compounds for the purpose of
producing a bleached effect upon the Flour. In view of the presence of
Nitrites they were reported as inferior.
18. The remaining seven samples submitted were found to have the
composition of unadulterated samples of Wheaten Flour, and they
were therefore certified to be genuine.
RICE.
19. The sample of Rice reported as adulterated contained extraneous
mineral matter, consisting of a Silicate of Magnesia, having the character
of powdered Talc.
The particulars are as understated:—
0.28 per cent. extraneous mineral matter equivalent to 19.6 grains
per pound.
20. The mineral substance referred to is used in the preparation of
Rice for the alleged purpose of improving the appearance of the Rice
grains, the process being known as " facing." It is insoluble and its
presence must be regarded as objectionable on account of the facts that
its continued ingestion might cause injury to health and that it is a
foreign ingredient which adds to the weight of the Rice.
21. The remaining 6 samples had the composition of genuine Rice.
CREAM CHEESE.
22. The sample of Cream Cheese reported as adulterated contained
Boric Acid, the particulars being as understated:—
Boron Trioxide Equivalent to Equivalent to
Boric Acid Boric Acid.
0.0768 per cent. 0.1360 per cent. 9.520 grains per lb.
SHREDDED BEEF SUET.
23. The sample of Shredded Beef Suet, reported as adulterated, was
found to contain 15 per cent. of Starchy matter, having the characters of
Rice starch.
CUSTARD POWDER.
24. Under existing circumstances adulteration cannot be certified
with respect to the sample of "Custard Powder," reported as inferior.