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202
Report of the Medical Officer of Health.
public, more particularly in the poorer localities for genuine new
milk, and is undoubtedly the cause of much malnutrition in young
children of the poor, not only in this Borough but in every
Borough in the Metropolis. The Inspector reports to me that milk
sellers of this character have increased in the Borough by something
like 50 per cent. He is fully' alive to his responsibility in
suppressing this class of tradesman, but his ingenuity is taxed
very considerably, so much so is this the case that he has reported
to me on many occasions during the year that it is a well-nigh
impossible task unless assisted by private householders, which
help, as I have already pointed out, is most difficult to obtain.
The only thing which can be done pending further legislation on
this important phase of the milk question is to take samples from
these sellers on every possible occasion, even at the risk of a
charge of persecution.
I have also to report that in only three cases during the year
have summonses been dismissed owing to the "warranty defence"
being pleaded.
Three summonses were issued against milk sellers for refusing
to sell a sample to the Inspector on demand, two for obstructing
him in the execution of his duty, and one against a vendor for
not having his name and address legibly inscribed on his vehicle.
Of the 13 samples of meats taken, and which are specified in
the Analyst's Report, eight or 61.5 per cent. were reported to
contain boric acid as a preservative. In three of these cases proceedings
were instituted against the vendors where the quantity
was considered to be injurious to health, viz. : 20 grains per pound
and over, but in only one case was a conviction obtained. There
is always considerable difficulty in obtaining convictions in these
cases owing to the great difference of opinion as to how far the
use of preservatives is necessary and to what extent it is injurious
to health. Having regard to the large number of articles of food
in common use to which preservatives are added, it becomes
necessary to take an increasing number of samples of such foods.
This certainly acts in many instances as a deterrent, notably in the
case of local manufacturers of sausages and potted meat. In my
opinion, however, the use of preservatives of any kind should be
prohibited by law unless there be attached to the article of food