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292
1910]
During the last twelve months we discovered three instances in which
this amber syrup was substituted for golden syrup, and in each instance the
quantity of the glucose varied, the proportions being from 64 to 75 per cent.
These samples were not sold as amber syrup, but as golden syrup, so that
it was possible to prosecute the vendors, but in the case now before us
no prosecution is possible because the paper wrapper was stamped with the
words " Amber Syrup."
I bring this matter before you as an example of how necessary it is
that all our foods should be defined, as they are in many countries.
Let me say that what is happening with respect to golden syrup is also
taking place with respect to extract of malt, a medicine and food of very
great use in disease, for it too is largely adulterated with glucose: but
unfortunately, it is not possible by any chemical process at present known
to differentiate between it and the malt extract. It is time that the
Government of this country made standards for all our foods.
I am,
Your faithful servant,
A. E. HARRIS,
Medical Officer of Health.
Town Hall, Islington, N.,
9th May, 1910.
Sauces.—Seven samples of sauce, of which 5, or 71.4 per cent., were reported
as adulterated, were obtained. The cases are peculiar. A complaint
was received by the Medical Officer of Health that certain sauces, manufactured
in Islington, contained copper, and accordingly samples were obtained and
submitted to the Public Analyst for analysis. In his report on them he stated
that they were found to be contaminated with copper, and were in consequence
reported as adulterated, but that the amount of the metal was less than the
amount recommended in the minority reports of the Preservatives Commit tee as
permissible addition. He then went on to say that "the copper in the case
"of these sauces was an accidental contamination and not a wilful addition, as
"it is in the case of sulphate of copper employed to give an unwholesome
"looking green to tinned vegetables."
As the Medical Officer of Health had never heard of copper being discovered
in sauces, and as there was no reason for its addition, he came to the
conclusion that its presence must have been the result of accidental contamination,
and consequently, accompanied by Mr. Leggatt and Mr, Burrell,