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Result of Analytical Examinations.—136 samples of milk
were taken, of which 6 were found to be adulterated or below the
standard fixed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries. 41
of these samples were taken from local hospitals and schools. The
administrative action taken is set out in Table on Page 79.
Bacteriological Examinations.—In accordance with arrangements
made with the London County Council, 56 samples of milk
were taken on arrival at the Brook and St. Alfege's hospitals and
local schools. Four samples were found not to conform with
requirements of the Milk (Special Designations) Orders, 1936 and
1938, by reason of high bacterial counts. Particulars of these
infringements were forwarded to the County Council, and warning
letters sent to the Vendors. One of the Vendors concerned was a
local dairyman who had only newly installed a pasteurising plant
and following investigation of the Food Inspector, minor modifications
were carried out. Examination of subsequent samples
taken proved entirely satisfactory. In addition 14 samples were
taken from local and itinerant vendors. With one exception,
all these were found to comply with the standards required.
The question as to what action should be taken with regard
to this unsatisfactory sample was one of some difficulty. The firm
in question were large dairymen operating in various Boroughs.
All milk supplied to their branches was pasteurised at their Headquarters
in another Borough. During the past few years this
Council has several times successfully proceeded against this
firm for selling impure milk, and the London County Council has also
been apprised of various unsatisfactory bacteriological examinations.
Possibly as the result of this action it was noted the firm
ceased to supply milk to schools in the Greenwich and Woolwich
areas after 1935. From information received from the Medical
Officer of Health of the Borough concerned, I am informed that
this firm has been guilty of grave malpractices at their dairy premises
and that their Council has decided to remove the name of the firm
from their Register. (N.B. This firm closed their premises in
Greenwich early in 1939).
Examination for Presence of T.B.—Two samples of milk
(Tuberculin Tested (Certified) and Raw) were submitted to the
Council's Bacteriologist for examination for the presence of tubercle
bacilli. Both gave negative results.
Inspection of Meat and Other Foods.—During 1938 the
following diseased and unsound goods were voluntarily surrendered
at slaughter-houses and shops:-