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Minced Meat—Twenty-two samples of minced meat were submitted, and of these no
less than eight (36.3 per cent.) were found to contain sulphite preservative. In four of these,
informal samples were first purchased and when the preservative was found, a formal sample
was subsequently obtained. In each case the sulphite was again found, rather indicating
that the vendors were in the habit of adding this preservative to their meat contrary to the
Regulations. In these days when effective refrigerators are available it is very desirable that
the indiscriminate use of preservative should be stopped.
Sausages.—Three samples of sausages were found to contain sulphite preservative and
although one of them was sold as "Preserved Sausages" it contained no less than 604 parts
per million of sulphur di-oxide, or 154 parts per million in excess of the limit laid down by
the Preservatives Regulations for "Preserved Sausages," and when proper notice is given to
the purchaser. Another instance of the haphazard methods of using preservatives.
Vinegar.—Both the samples of vinegar certified to be adulterated were deficient in
acetic acid In the case of one sample, obtained informally, the deficiency was 25.0 per cent.
and on purchasing a formal sample from the same vendor some days afterwards, the deficiency
was 26.5 per cent. Vinegar should contain at least 4.0 per cent. of acetic acid. It is
interesting to note that the term ''vinegar" has been held to mean "malt vinegar" unless
it is properly described in some other manner.
Sardinet.—In the last report attention was drawn to the presence of large quantities
of lead in certain samples of sardines. It is satisfactory to be able to report that none has been
certified during the year under review. Until recently the limit of lead allowed was 20 parts
per million, but the Port Authorities have now decided to reduce this quantity to five parts
per million, and soon propose to return to the country of origin all samples which contain
more than mere traces of this metal.
Canned Foods.—All the samples of canned foods examined were free from tin or lead,
or only contained small traces of these metals.
Drugs.—The few samples of drugs examined were all within the limits prescribed and
mostly of good quality.
Proposed new Legislation.—A Bill has recently been prepared by a Committee to consolidate
with amendments, certain enactments relating to Food, Drugs, Markets, Slaughterhouses
and Knackers' Yard, a draft of which was presented to Parliament by the Ministry of
Health in December, 1937, and is still under consideration.