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106
By this means the traders and the public would know what was permissible
and what was not, the only point at issue being whether the preservative
or colouring matter used or the amount of it was contrary to the
Regulations. The Minister, while agreeing with the recommendation
found it impracticable to introduce legislation to give effect to it. He
suggests that Local Authorities should not take proceedings under the
Sale of Food and Drugs Acts in respect of the addition of preservatives
to food except where such addition would be contrary to the Regulations.
A considerable period of time is allowed from the issue of the Regulations
in August, 1925, to the date when they will become operative, in order
to permit of time in which adjustments in methods and processes may be
overtaken and existing stocks cleared.
The only preservatives which are permitted are sulphur dioxide and
benzoic acid and these only in certain specified foods and not exceeding
stated amounts. Preservative is not permitted in cream nor must any
thickening substance be added. A list of prohibited colouring matters
is set forth in the first schedule of the Regulations and among them may
be mentioned copper compounds, arsenic, lead and zinc. There are
also provisions for labelling articles of food as to the presence of
preservative.
The operation of these Regulations will doubtless cause many changes
in the methods now adopted in this country for preserving focd.
Experience has shown that much can be achieved by improved methods of
preparation and cold storage. As remarked when discussing preserved
cream, it was found that certain samples contained an amount of boric
acid far below that legally permitted, while a goodly propo rtion were put
on the market without its aid.