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Report—Public Analyst.
151
IV.—Alcoholic Beverages.
Five samples of ale, four of whiskey, two of beer
and two of porter were submitted. All were found
genuine and free from arsenic.
V.— Confectionery.
The samples submitted were six in number, and
consisted of two sweets, two sweet scones and two rice
buns. They were found to contain no arsenic or other
deleterious ingredients and were therefore classed as
" genuine."
VI.—Drugs.
Two samples of " Medicine as prescribed," one of
"Compound Liquorice Powder," one of "Tincture of
Opium," and one of " Gregory's Powder," were submitted
and all were found correct, which is an improvement on
1899, when 23 per cent, of the samples examined were
condemned.
In conclusion, I regret to have to report that the
food and drug supply of the District as a whole has not
yet regained its normal state after the great retrogression
experienced during 1899 ; but it has improved to a certain
extent, the general percentage of adulteration
being 7.3 per cent. in. 1900 as against 8.3 per cent, in
1899. As the normal state of the District (shown by
experience of 28 years) should work out at not exceeding
5 per cent, it would seem advisable to somewhat
increase the stringency of inspection by enlarging the
number of samples purchaseable by the Inspector.
JOHN MUTER, ph.d ; f.r.s.e., f.i.c.
Public Analyst.
South London Central Public Laboratory,
325, Kennington Road, S.E.