View report page

105
ANALYSIS OF FOOD AND DRUGS.
During the year 1896 more samples have been purchase
and submitted to the Public Analyst for analysis than in
any previous year. Taking the last ten years (1886:—95),
the annual average as to number of samples taken is 361,
of which 60 [i.e., 16.7°/0) were found on analysis to be
adulterated. The average annual number of summonses
issued is 42.8, with the annual average of 42.1 convictions
and 18.3 cautions. The annual average amount of penalties
is £81 15s. 6d., and of costs £21 Is. 6d. Comparing
these averages with the actual numbers and figures for 1896,
some idea of the extra amount of work that has been done
in this particular Department will be gained, for in 1896
549 samples were purchased, of which 66 (i.e., 12 02 %)
were adulterated. In connection with these adulterated
samples, 66 summonses* were issued, and in 2 cases the
vendors were cautioned, with the result that there were
60 convictions, with £93 in penalties, and £35 lis. 6d.
in costs.
Full details are given as to the various foods and drugs
obtained, with the percentages of adulterations in each case,
not only during the year 1896, but also for each of the
previous ten years (1886—95).
* This department is under Inspector Wiggs, who has shewn, by results,
how well this particular work is carried out in Lambeth Parish.