View report page

100
ANALYSIS OF FOOD AND DRUGS,
WATER, Etc.
During the year 1898, 602 samples have been purchased
and submitted to the Public Analyst for analysis. Taking
the last ten years (1888-97), the annual average as to
number of samples taken is 411, of which 66 (i.e., 15-9 %}
were found, on analysis., to be adulterated. The average
annual number of summonses issued is 44, with an average
of 44 convictions and 18 cautions, and an average of
£90 0s. 6d. in penalties, and £29 lis. lid. in costs
during the same decennium.
Of the 602 samples purchased during 1898, 74 (i.e.,
12-3 °/0) were reported by the Analyst to be adulterated ; 57
summonses were issued, with the result that 54 convictions
were obtained, together with £69 in penalties, and
£34 9s. Od. in costs; and in six cases the Vendors were
cautioned. Full details are given as to the various foods
and drugs purchased and analysed, with the percentages of
adulterations in each case, not only during the year 1898
but also for each of the previous ten years (1888-97).
The results for the year are satisfactory, and a credit to
the newly-appointed Inspector (Mr. W. J. Perrin), who has
had sole charge of the carrying out of the Foods and
Drugs and Margarine Acts in Lambeth. It will be noted
that more samples have been taken during the year 1898
than ever before in one year in Lambeth Parish, whilst the
average of adulterated samples is higher than during last year
(1897). The Inspector, in most cases, employs a deputy to
purchase the samples.
The results of the monthly examinations of the Water
supplied to the Parish by the Southwark and Vauxhall and
Lambeth Companies were satisfactory during 1898.