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During the year, 78 samples of milk were submitted for bacteriological
examination. Two samples, both from vending machines, failed to pass the
methylene blue test; in one of the two cases the atmospheric shade temperature
during the test exceeded the permissible limit of 65°F.
Ice cream
The total number of registered premises selling ice cream is 138; of this
number, one is registered for manufacturing ice cream. 126 visits were paid to
these premises. During the year, two applications for the storage and sale of
ice cream were granted. 28 inspections in connection with itinerant vendors were
carried out.
During the year, 95 samples of ice cream were submitted for bacteriological
examination; they were graded as follows t-
Grade I Grade II Grade III Grade IV Total
Wrapped Ice cream 49 15 5 3 72
Loose Ice cream 5 3 19
Soft Ice cream 6 6 2 14
In addition to ice cream, 52 lollies were submitted for examination. Six
were unsatisfactory; the lollies were manufactured outside the borough and the
local authorities concerned were informed.
Unsound Food
complaints continue to be received and considered by the Public Health
committee in respect of food containing foreign substances or otherwise alleged
to be unfit for human consumption. During the year, 33 such complaints were
investigated. In most cases, warning letters were sent to the persons
responsible. Legal proceedings were authorised in three oases; in two cases the
complainants were unwilling to give evidence, and in the other a fine of £10 was
imposed.
Registration of Food Hawkers
Under the provisions of the Essex county council Act 1952, Section 103,
three persons were registered as food hawkers; in one case, storage accommodation
was outside the borough.
Food Poisoning
One case of food poisoning was notified during the year. The following
is a copy of the annual return submitted to the Ministry of Health:-
1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter Total
1 - - 1
cases otherwise ascertained 30
Symptomless Excretes Nil
Fatal cases Nil
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