London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

View report page

Barking 1945

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Barking]

This page requires JavaScript

57
The reports of the Borough Analysts show that of
this total, sixteen were found not genuine.
Of the unsatisfactory samples, six related to
deficiencies of milk fat. On check samples being taken
at the time of milking, it was found that the results
were comparable with the unsatisfactory samples
obtained. In view of this, proceedings were not taken
but the producer was advised of the steps he should
take to remedy the position.
Samples of baking powder and mustard were
reported to be unsatisfactory. It was found that the
stocks had been in store for some time and were
subsequently surrendered for destruction.
One prosecution relating to a sample of gin which
had a strength of 48.5° under proof, as compared with
the standard of 35.o° under proof, was instituted. The
case, however, was dismissed under the Probation of
Offenders Act on payment by the Company concerned
of £5 costs and on payment by the manager of the
premises in question of £15 costs.
The Borough Analyst in his reports called attention
to the unsatisfactory position with regard to cocktail
tonics. The facts were reported to the Ministry of Food
who, we are advised, are now about to introduce
standards for such preparations.
Ginger wine cordials were examined and found to
consist of a solution of sugar containing a little citric
acid and flavoured with ginger. It was a non-alcoholic
preparation but was not so described on the label.
It is felt that preparations of this nature should be
clearly labelled as non-alcoholic to avoid the public
being misled.