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62
"Remarks.—Sample No, 1. Analysis C. In this case
it is clear that the rasher was not cut evenly. Doubtless
I cut the fat thicker than the lean so that the boric acid
works out low.
Sample No. 3. Analysis C. This was fried too much.
Analysis D. This was boiled too much. Also the piece
was so small that practically ail the boric acid was boiled
out. It will be observed that the unsmoked sample
contains always more boric acid than the smoked.
"The unsmoked streaky contains 11 grains per lb.
When that piece was washed it was not dried but placed on a
flat surface back downwards. In such a position I am sure
there would be a tendency for the boric acid to drain down
from the back to the streaky part.
"In no case is the amount of boric acid at all likely to
be injurious—even in she fried specimen (No. 3 C), which
was certainly fried too mnch; there is not 0.2 per cent of
boric acid ".
"Sample No. 1 is piece of the same side analysed for borax
by Dr. Rideal, and the comparison is interesting, but bear in
mind that Dr. Rideal's analysis was made the same day as the
bacon landed, whereas the analysis by Dr. Hurtley was made
after the bacon had lain in the borax with which it was packed
for two weeks. Also Dr. Rideal trimmed the face of the meat
before making his analysis, and thereby reduced the amount of
borax. Dr. Rideal's was meant for a fighting analysis, and Dr
Hurtleys was for our own information, as to what the worst
could be like."
This firm in particular was eager to demonstrate their desire
to have some standard fixed as regards the amount of boric acid
to be allowed in imported bacon, and approached both the
English and American Governments. Both firms alluded to
gave their trade experience in the matter freely, and it is believed
were quite earnest in their desire to have the question settled on
a proper basis. It is perhaps too early yet to hope for active
interference by Government, but your Public Health Committee
will be well advised to keep the question of the purity of this
almost universal article of diet well to the front.