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which four unsatisfactory reports were received. On representations
made to the vendor, he eventually closed down the business.
Another trader who manufactured his product locally was also
responsible for four unsatisfactory reports. Investigation into the
methods employed and facilities available revealed scope for improvement.
A technical adviser was employed and a plan for reorganising
the premises and equipment was approved, which was proceeding at the
close of the year.
The third instance concerned a retail vendor purchasing ice-cream
in bulk from outside the District; three adverse reports were received on
this product. Following representations, the trader concerned temporarily
stopped the sale of ice-cream and has since obtained supplies from
another source.
In the remaining case a local manufacturer was responsible for one
adverse report. A subsequent sample proved satisfactory.
Meat.
The two slaughterhouses in the District have not been licensed since
1940. In 1947 one licence was issued under the Slaughter of Animals
Act, 1933, for the purpose of slaughtering at a public institution in the
District. The only carcases examined were occasional cottagers' pigs
and meat delivered to local butchers' shops from the Wholesale Meat
Supply Association situated outside the District.
Other Foods.
As far as possible routine inspections were made to food premises,
including bakehouses, provision shops, ice-cream shops, restaurant
kitchens and cafes, etc., with regard to the provisions as to rooms and
precautions to be taken against contamination of food.
The condition of many of these premises leaves much to be desired,
due in the main to the accumulation of defects and neglect during the
war years, unavoidable lack of supervision, difficulties experienced in
obtaining labour and materials to carry out alterations and repairs, and
restrictions on civil building.
At the close of the year efforts were being made to overtake the
arrears of work under this heading.
A public awareness of the necessity for a high standard of food
hygiene is becoming more apparent, and in those cases where representations
have been made, the traders concerned have generally expressed
willingness to fall in with the suggestions made by the Inspectors.
Unfortunately difficulties and delays have been experienced by
owners in obtaining building licences from the Ministry of Works, even
when applications have been supported by the Public Health Department.
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