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1938] 80
For tubercle, 12 samples were tested, and in no case was the bacillus discovered.
The samples were examined for "bacterial count," or subjected to methylene blue
or coliform tests according to the designation of the milk. Five samples showed
unsatisfactory results, one of "Pasteurised Milk" showing the presence of coliform
bacillus.
In addition to the above-mentioned 52 samples, 9 samples of milk were taken for
phosphatase test, and all were reported to be satisfactory.
In the case of faulty samples the matter was taken up with each dairyman, the
possible causes gone into, and an endeavour made to trace the exact causes. At the
same time the dairyman was warned that every precaution should be taken to prevent
recurrence.
Three samples of water from the domestic supply of houses where it was
suggested illness might be due to the drinking water were examined, but
none showed the presence of any pathogenic bacteria. The samples were
reported to be of such quality that no exception could be taken to the use of the
water for domestic purposes upon bacteriological grounds. One sample of water was
taken from an artesian well to ascertain the condition of the underground water
supply ; this was reported to be suitable for domestic purposes.
Special Food Examination.—Two samples of food—chocolate biscuit and
beetroot, both alleged to have caused illness—were examined by the Public Analyst,
who in both cases reported that nothing could be traced to account for the symptoms
complained of.
Prosecutions under the Food and Drugs (Adulteration) Act.—During the
year legal proceedings were instituted in six instances under this Act; three being
successful, fines amounting to £8 7s. 0d., and costs amounting to £8 7s. Od. being
imposed. In three instances the summonses were dismissed under the Probation of
Offenders Act on payment of costs amounting to £18 18s. Od.
The following is a brief summary of the cases in which legal proceedings were
taken:—
(a) A sample of "Orange Wine" on examination showed a very small percentage
of alcohol, but consisted of a coloured and flavoured solution of sugar.
The term "Orange Wine" was a misdescription. The case was dismissed
under the Probation of Offenders Act on payment of £3 3s. 0d. costs.
(b) "Fresh Cream Buns"; the substance consisted of 95 per cent. of fat not
derived from milk, whereas fresh cream should have consisted entirely of
milk fat. The defendants pleaded guilty; the case was dismissed under the
Probation of Offenders Act, on payment of £10 10s. 0d. costs.
(c) Whisky was sold 37 38 degrees under proof, whereas it should not have been
more than 35 degrees under proof. Defendant pleaded guilty and the case
was dismissed under the Probation of Offenders Act on payment of £5 5s. Od.
costs.
(d) Milk containing 7.06 per cent. of added water. Defendant fined £2 2s. 0d.
and £2 2s. 0d. costs.
(e) Selling sausages which contained preservative; statement made that the
sausages contained no preservative. Fined £1 and £1 costs.
(f) Milk deficient in fat to the extent of 60 per cent. Fined £5 5s. 0d. and
£b 5s. 0d. costs.