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The first seven were samples taken unofficially, and the vendors were
informed that before any sale could be permitted steps must be taken
to have the apples well brushed. This was done under the supervision
of the Food Inspector. An official sample was taken from the vendor
of the sample containing 1/16 grain of arsenic per lb., and the result of
analysis showed about of a grain per lb.
The Analyst, when asked by the Committee, stated that the arsenic
on the apples was very unevenly distributed, and it was very difficult
to get a correct result, but that the apples taken as a whole really showed
a very small quantity of arsenic indeed.
Cakes.—10 samples were taken and 7 contained preservative—14, 13, 10, 9.3, 8,
8 and 8 grains of boric acid per lb. in the "cream," respectively. The samples consisted
of chocolate cream buns and cream sandwich. The analysis of the samples as a whole
showed that the quantity of preservative varied from 7 grains to .8 grain. It was pointed
out that there was no standard for this kind of "cream," and as the amount was not
serious no action was taken.
Meat Pies.—46 samples were taken and 8 contained boric acid (6.5, 6.3, 6, 5.6, 2.8,
2.6, 2.5 and 2 grains per lb. respectively). The vendors attention was called to the result
of the analysis in respect of the first four samples, and no action was taken with regard to
the remainder.
Sausages.—57 samples of various kinds were taken. 13 contained preservative in
small quantities, varying from 3 grains to 19.6 grains per lb. In the majority of the cases
notice was displayed on the container that the sample contained boric acid. The vendors'
attention was called to the result of the analysis.
Meat and Fish Paste.—68 samples were taken and all were found to be free of any
preservative.
Peas.—20 samples were taken and 9 were found to contain crystallized copper sulphate
in quantities varying from .1 to 2 grains per lb. Summary proceedings were taken in a
case where no notice was given and the quantity amounted to 1.26 grains—fined £5.
In the remaining cases notice was given that the samples contained copper sulphate,
and cautionary letters were sent to the vendors.
Beans.—5 samples were taken and 3 were found to contain crystallized copper
sulphate (1.7, 1.7 and 1.4 grains per lb.). Notice was given in each case and no action
taken.
Spinach.—6 samples were taken and 5 contained preservative (3, crystallized copper
sulphate—3.47 (fined £7), 1.97 (fined £5) and 1.9 (notice given and vendor's attention
called to result of analysis); 1, 2 grains tin per lb. (no action—unofficial sample); 1, 1.2
grains zinc per lb. (no action—unofficial sample).
Vegetable Mayonnaise.—3 samples were taken and all contained preservative.55,
.27 and .21 grains crystallized copper sulphate per lb. respectively. The vendors
of the first two samples were cautioned—the remaining sample was unofiical.
Lime Juice.—3 samples were taken and all contained preservative. (265, 214 parts of
sulphur dioxide per million and 14.3 grains sulphur dioxide per gallon. No action taken,
as the amount was well undor that permitted by the Now Regulations.
Meat Regulations, 1924.
The requirements of the Regulations have, on the whole, been reasonably
complied with by the shopkeepers and stall-holders in the City.