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Report of the Medical Officer of Health.
275
Although, on analysis, the samples were found to be coloured
with a coal tar dye, yet in each case the quantity of dye present
was infinitesimal.
RICE.
14 samples of rice were examined for the presence of " facing."
Most of the samples showed evidence of facing, but no sample
was found to exceed the amount recommended as permissible in
Dr. J. M. Hamill's Report to the Local Government Board.
In my opinion, the practice of polishing rice or other cereals
with mineral water should be absolutely prohibited, for there can
be no doubt that the gain by polishing is not to the consumer,
on the contrary, the consumer often gets an inferior rice polished
in substitution for the genuine article.
The Inspector who carries out the duties under the Sale of
Food and Drugs Acts has again performed all these duties in a most
thorough and efficient manner, and in addition has satisfactorily
carried out all the work in connection with the Rag Flock Act and
the Milk and Cream Regulations.
I have also pleasure in reporting that the whole of the work
of the Department has, during the year, been carried out by the
various members of the staff to my entire satisfaction.
I have the honour to be,
Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
P. CALDWELL SMITH.