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116
The following list shows in detail the results of analysis of individual
samples other than milk and spirits, which were adulterated and the
decision taken in each case, with the result of any legal proceedings
ordered by the Council:—
Butter. 160 samples were taken. Three contained a slight excess of moisture
and two contained a small percentage of Boric Acid. The vendors were cautioned
by letter in each case.
Sausages. 75 samples of various kinds were purchased. 11 wore found to
contain sulphur di-oxide in amounts varying from 60 to 335 parts per million, and
were not labelled in accordance with the Public Health (Preservatives in Food)
Regulations. In each case the vendors were cautioned by letter. The amount of
sulphur di-oxide permitted is 450 parts per million, provided the article is labelled.
Preserved Fruits. 49 samples of various kinds were purchased, and one, dried
apricots, was found to contain 2,750 parts of sulphur di-oxide per million. Th&
vendor was cautioned by letter. The amount of sulphur di-oxide permitted in
these fruits is 2,000 parts per million.
Sultanas. 28 samples were purchased. One was found to contain 1140 partsof
sulphur di-oxide per million. The vendor of this sample was prosecuted and
ordered to pay £2 2s. Od. costs.
Raisins. 21 samples were purchased and one was found to contain 880 parts of
sulphur di-oxide per million, This was an informal sample. A formal sample was
taken and found to be genuine. The amount of sulphur di-oxide permitted in
these fruits is 750 parts per million.
Syrup of Figs. 13 samples were taken. 3 were found to contain Benzoic Acid
as follows: 1,700, 1,700 and 2,200 parts per million. One of these was an informal
sample. As regards the 2 formal samples the makers agreed in future to state the
amount of Benzoic Acid on the label.
Fruit Cordials. 24 samples were taken. 1 contained a preparation of Salicylic
Acid equivalent to 1,250 parts of Salicylic Acid per lb., and another contained 650
parts of Benzoic Acid per lb. Both of these were informal samples. Formal
samples were taken and found to be genuine.
Caviare. 9 samples were taken. 4 were found to contain Boric Acid in
amounts varying from 3.5 to 19.6 grains per lb. Three vendors were prosecuted, but
the summonses were dismissed under the Probation of Offenders Act on payment
of costs amounting to a total of £13 13s. Od. The other vendor was cautioned by
letter.
Caviare : Preservatives in.—There is no record of this food substance
ever having been examined previously for the presence of preservatives.
It may be noted that under the regulations, caviare is not included in
the schedule of substances to which certain preservatives may be added.
In any case boric acid is not permitted under these regulations to be
added to any foad.
Of the nine samples analysed. 4 were found to contain preservative,
and that, boric acid, in the amounts stated. It is contended that boric