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Ten samples were reported upon adversely, but three related solely
to defects in labelling, in that the ingredients were not specified thereon.
In two instances the commodity concerned was imported on Government
account and was thus exempted from the requirements of the Labelling
of Food Order. In the remaining case the firm concerned arranged for
re-labelling.
In the opinion of the Public Analyst the composition and formulation
of an informal sample of cough linctus did not warrant the full description
given on the label, but although the matter was pursued with the manufacturers,
the Department was unable to obtain a further sample for
analysis.
A sample of fruit drops was found to contain 120 parts per million
of sulphur dioxide but investigation revealed that the liquid glucose used
in its manufacture contained this preservative within the prescribed limit.
A sherbet was found to be deficient in tartaric acid and the proportion
of magnesium carbonate present was so high as to give the article a flat
alkaline taste. The manufacturer was advised to employ the services of a
consultant and as a result the formula was completely revised.
A small trader in the District received a warning from the Council
in respec t of a sample of non-brewed vinegar deficient in acetic acid.
The three remaining cases concerned samples of malt vinegar containing
small percentages of added salt, which, in the opinion of the
Public Analyst, is not a normal constituent of vinegar. In each case,
however, the manufacturer held a special dispensation from the Ministry
of Food to add salt without declaration.
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