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95
Cheese.—Twenty-four samples were obtained, the majority being of
the foil wrapped type. A carton of foil wrapped cheese was submitted
to the department which on macroscopic examination appeared to contain
crystals of glass. The vendors were interviewed, and on the nature of
the complaint being disclosed to them, the remainder of the stock was
immediately withdrawn from sale. A sample from this consignment
was submitted to the analyst when the "glass" was found to be crystals
of lactose.
Preserved Fruits.—Thirty-six samples of tinned, crystallized, dried,
and fresh fruits were purchased for analysis. One sample of fresh green
plums was reported as adulterated inasmuch as it contained 250 parts per
million of sulphur in the form of a dusting powder on the fruit. A
sample of greengages was found to show traces of arsenic to the extent
of l/500th gr. per lb. Nine samples of grapes were purchased, 4 of
which contained minute amounts of arsenic varying from l/800th gr.
to l/200th gr. per lb.
Preserved Vegetables.—Twenty-one samples of tinned vegetables and
vegetable products were purchased. Three samples of tomato puree
were found to be adulterated since they contained copper in amounts
varying from 35 to 110 parts per million. The vendors were cautioned
in each case.
Preserved Fish.—Thirty-one samples of tinned, salted &c., fish were
purchased. Seven samples of tinned anchovies were reported to contain
a preservative, viz., a benzoic acid substance. Summary proceedings
were instituted.
Vinegar.—Of the 36 samples of vinegar examined 1 sample of wine
vinegar was found to be deficient in acetic acid. The deficiency was
due to selling the soured wine before the acetification of the alcohol was
completed. The vendor's attention was drawn to this deficiency.
Regulation of Street Trading.
The London County Council (General Powers) Act, 1927, provides
for the regulation of street trading by the issue of licences which must
be renewed annually. Special observation is kept by the food inspectors
on all stalls where food is exposed for sale and also the premises where
it is stored.