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257
Report of the Medical Officer of Health.
Six samples of common washing soda were analysed, but as
this article was not a food or a drag, it was necessary to procure
the samples, and take proceedings under the Merchandise Marks
Act.
Two samples were reported as being adulterated with sulphate
of soda or what is known as Glauber's salts, this salt being about
one half the price of ordinary washing soda.
Glauber's salt is useless for the purpose for which washing
soda is used, in fact, the percentage found in the samples quite
neutralised the softening effect of the genuine soda with which
it was mixed.
Proceedings were taken against the vendors of the two samples
reported against as being adulterated. The first case heard resulted
in a conviction, the defendant being fined £4 and £2 2s. 0d. costs.
The Inspector appointed to carry out the work under the
Sale of Food and Drugs Acts has done admirable work during the
year and has been the means of stopping certain forms of adulteration
which were prevalent and which were extremely difficult
to discover.
The year 1911 was an exceptionally busy one, not only as
regards the executive duties of the staff, but also as regards the
clerical work. The exceptional prevalence of Measles, Whooping
Cough and Diarrhoea, as well as the new duties which devolved
on the staff with regard to Pulmonary Tuberculosis largely increased
the work, but I am pleased to be able to report that it has all
been carried out in a most satisfactory manner.
I have the honour to be,
Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
P. CALDWELL SMITH,
I Medical Officer of Health.