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17
Sixty–nine samples of ice–cream were taken for examination
by the methylene blue test. Twenty–two samples were
reported to be within grade 1, 16 samples within grade 2,
21 samples within grade 3, and 10 samples within grade 4.
This test is mentioned by the Ministry of Health as one
which appears to provide the best available means for ascertaining
the bacterial cleanliness of ice–cream. It is suggested
that, if out of the four grades recommended, ice–cream
consistently fails to reach grades 1 and 2, it would be reasonable
to regard this as indicating defects of manufacture, or of
handling, which call for further investigation.
Milk
Two hundred and seventy–six samples of milk were submitted
to the Public Analyst for chemical analysis. Two, or
a percentage of 0.72, were reported adulterated.
There are five milk pasteurising plants licensed by this
Authority operating in the Borough. These plants are of
modern design and employ the latest process of pasteurisation
known as the High Temperature Short Time Method. One
of these milk plants is considered to be the largest in this
country.
In addition to those taken for chemical analysis, 164
samples of milk were taken under the Milk (Special Designations)
Regulations, 1936/1946, and Regulation 55G of the
Defence (General) Regulations, 1939, and submitted for
phosphatase, methylene blue and bacteriological tests.
It is of interest to note that all samples of milk submitted
for the phosphatase test—a test which reveals whether milk
has been effectively pasteurised or heat–treated—were reported
by the Public Analyst to be satisfactory.