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13
1929
reason or other a large number of bottles remain uncollected.
These of course are commercial and economic conditions, though
these have an indirect influence on the public health. Any condition
which enhances the price of milk will tend to a lower
consumption. But the most serious factor from a public health
point of view is the risk of milk being delivered in unwashed or
improperly sterilized bottles. Some of the smaller retailers have
not the means of sterilizing the empty bottles, but this difficulty
can be overcome by the purchase of the milk in bottles from the
wholesalers.
It may be objected that this may mean a further hold of the
large wholesalers and trusts upon the milk supply. This is true,
but almost every development in milk distribution gives a stronger
hold to the big concerns. The small retailer cannot hope to have
milk conveyed in large glass-lined tanks, except through the large
wholesalers, and other conditions might be mentioned.
Another objection to the glass bottle is the possibility that
it may be filled from a churn in the street without any washing of
any kind. Instances of this practice have been reported to the
Committee and although it is a legal offence, proceedings were
not taken.
During last year a new development in the distribution of
milk was made possible by the manufacture of what is called the
Sealcone. The Sealcone is a container of light, but very strong
cardboard, freshly made and sterilized for each delivery of milk
and destroyed after use. The cardboard is carried through a bath
of boiling wax so as to make it sterile. It is then formed into a
cone, filled with milk and hermetically sealed to prevent leakage
or contamination. Once the seal has been applied no dirt can
reach the milk inside nor can the milk escape. Only by cutting
the container can the milk be removed. This makes it impossible
to adulterate the milk, or to tamper with it in any way. It also
makes it impossible to use the Sealcone twice. Once it has been
used it must be destroyed.
This method of distribution is mentioned to emphasize the
fact that the glass bottle is not the last word in clean distribution,
but if properly handled, there is not much chance of contamination
if the milk is sold in sealed bottles only, over the counter and at
the consumer's door.
BAKEHOUSES
There are 29 bakehouses in the district; of these 6 are
underground bakehouses and were occupied before the passing of
the Factory Act of 1901.
MEAT INSPECTION
There are two slaughter-houses in the borough; in one of