View report page

Fifty-five sample of raw milk were examined for the presence of brucella abortus and
none indicated evidence of infection. Towards the end of the year one bulk sample showed
evidence of the presence of Rickettsia burneti. Whilst the farmer sent the majority of his
milk implicated by this sample for heat treatment, a small amount was retained for the
production of cream which was sold direct to the public from the farm. In view of the fact
that this organism is communicable to man an Order was served on the farmer under
Regulation 20(1) of the Milk & Dairies (General) Regulations 1959 prohibiting the sale
of milk and cream unless heat treated. At the end of the year investigations were proceeding
to isolate the affected animals.
A further five samples were submitted for biological examination for the presence of
tubercle bacilli. All the samples were free of such organisms.
Food Complaints
Two hundred and twenty-two complaints were received as to quality or soundness or
the presence of foreign bodies in food; 17 were examined by the Public Analyst. In 31
cases the offence justified proceedings and in a further 13 cases the Council authorised
the sending of a "warning letter". The remaining cases were dealt with by advice from
the Department to the retailers or manufacturers concerned.
The table below classifies the nature of the complaints.
1. Foreign Bodies
(a) Insects 37
(b) Metal objects 11
(c) Glasses, stones, etc. 7
(d) Paper, wood, string, etc. 6
(e) Oil, grease, etc. 10
(f) Fabric, plastic, rubber etc. 2
(g) Cigarette ends 2
(h) Harmless matter, e.g. burnt
dough in bread 11 86
2. Quality
(a) Unsoundness 22
(b) Mould growth 41
(c) Rancidity, sourness etc. 10 73
3. Damaged or Dirty Containers
(a) Damaged containers 13
(b) Dirty containers, e.g.
milk bottles 25 38
36