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64
Bakehouses.
At the end of 1913 the number of bakehouses on the register was 75, 65 being
underground bakehouses.
In all, 158 visits were paid to these and 4 notices with regard to defects were served.
In accordance with the requirements of the Factory and Workshop Act, 1901,
notices calling for the limewashing, etc., of the inside walls and other parts of the
bakehouses were served. It was not necessary to institute proceedings to enforce
compliance with any notice.
SALE OF FOOD AND DRUGS ACTS.
The usual careful attention was given to this important part of the work of the
department during 1913. The total number of samples taken was 1061, which is
about the average for the last three years.
Of this number 45 were reported by the analyst as being below standard or not
of the nature, substance and quality demanded by the purchaser. This gives a
percentage of adulteration of 4.2 per cent., which is slightly higher than that for 1912,
when the percentage was only 2.9. In 1911 it was 6.2, and in 1910, 73.
The method adopted in connection with the taking of samples was similar to that
followed in previous years and described in former reports.
The inspector is given instructions each Saturday with regard to the sampling to
be done in the next ensuing week. The number and kind of samples to be taken is
indicated, and if any are to be taken "informally," that is without complying with the
formalities laid down in the Act, special instructions are given. The majority of the
samples in 1913 were "formal" samples, and in carrying out the sampling, the
inspector was almost invariably assisted by an agent.
The bulk of the samples taken were of milk and dairy produce.
The Public Analyst's Report, which is included in this report, contains a considerable
amount of information with regard to the materials sampled, and there is
little necessity for much to be said here.
It may be mentioned, however, that the prosecutions in respect of adulteration
of food numbered 27, and that the fines and costs recovered amounted to £64 6s. 0d.
In one case, relating to a sample of raspberry jam certified by the Public Analyst to
contain 10 per cent. of apple pulp, in which a penalty of £2 was imposed with costs
£15 15s. 0d., an appeal, which at the end of the year was still pending, was lodged.
The warranty defence was raised in 4 prosecutions for adulteration of milk, and
was successful in all cases, the summonses being dismissed.
In one case proceedings were instituted for an offence against the Acts other than
selling adulterated articles, as follows:—
Sale of Food and Drugs Act, 1899, Section 9.
Fine. Costs.
Selling milk from a vehicle without having name and address
inscribed thereon 5 0 2 0