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88
be any reason why other manufacturers should not take equal care.
Proceedings were taken with regard to the peeled shrimps which came
from Heligoland, and a penalty was inflicted. The importer further
voluntarily undertook to give up their sale.
Tinned Vegetables.—The action of the Westminster Council with
regard to vegetables coloured with sulphate of copper has led to the
introduction of several brands free from such colouring matter, and of
excellent appearance. Among those makers who still use it the amount
has been very considerably reduced. Thus in 23 samples of bottled
peas there was no copper in 8, less than 1 grain in 3, less than
1 ½ grains in 5, under 2 grains in 1; those in excess were 2.04, 2.17,
2.21, 2.45, 2.7, and 3.59 grains. A sample of dried peas examined was
found to be genuine, but a powder given along with them in a packet
was found to be a mixture of borax and carbonate of soda.
French or haricot beans were sampled 12 times; 2 had no copper,
1 a trace, 3 less than 1 grain, 5 less than 2 grains, 1 only exceeded,
viz., 2.34 grains. Of 6 samples of mixed vegetables, 1 had less than
1 grain, the others none. Preserved asparagus had no preservative
added.
Spinach continues to give higher amounts than other vegetables, the
9 samples yielding 17 grains, 2.3, 2.5, 2.6, 3.5, 4.75, 4.86, 5.32, and
6.63 grains respectively.
Probably in a number of instances where the higher figures were
obtained, the Inspector was served from old stock.
Preserved Fruits.—Sixteen samples, made up of pine apple, peaches,
apricots, pears, greengages, and cherries, were analysed and found free
from preservatives.
Drugs.—In six of the cream of tartar samples the amount of lead
present did not exceed 0.0005 per cent., and in four not more than
0.002 per Cent., the quantity suggested by the Local Government Board
as the limit.
Two summonses were taken in respect of milk of sulphur.
Seventy-five per cent. of the total samples were purchased by the
Inspectors by means of agents. 314 samples, chiefly milk, were taken
on Sundays, or at times other than the usual office hours, mostly early
in the morning.
Particulars of each case are appended:-