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large tea blending and packing factory in Greenford and come direct from the
London docks without inspection on landing. This places on the Council the responsibility
of ensuring that these teas are fit for human consumption in accordance
with the provisions of the Food & Drugs Act, 1955, and the Public Health (Imported
Food) Regulations, 1937.
During the year a total of 380 samples which were representative of all consignments
received at the factory were taken by the District Public Health Inspector.
Experience over the last few years has shown that greater attention must be paid to
teas from certain areas, and sampling is therefore selective.
Of these 380 samples, 28 were found to be of doubtful quality after initial tests
had been carried out locally and were referred to the Council's analyst for more
detailed examination and report. He found that 18 samples were from consignments
considered to be unfit for use for human consumption, mainly on account of the
presence of excessive amounts of metallic dust. Of these 18 samples, two were found
to be completely unfit for use and the two cases concerned were disposed of for other
purposes. The remaining 16 samples were from 465 cases of tea which were blended
with other good teas under supervision so that they did not form more than 5 % of
the final blend. Samples of the resultant product were taken in all cases and found
to be satisfactory.
The samples taken during the year were from a total stock of 50,841 cases received
at the factory direct from the docks. The amount of tea found to be unfit for use or
requiring to be blended under special arrangements was therefore 0.91 % of the total
consignments.
Other Food Samples
Eighteen other food samples were submitted for laboratory examination following
complaints and all were found to be satisfactory. These samples included cooked
fresh meat, cooked meat products, gravy and soups, fish fingers, custard, ice-cream,
cooked vegetables, batter pudding, animal foods (examined for risk of crossinfection).
SUMMARY OF WORK DONE AND IMPROVEMENTS
CARRIED OUT AT FOOD PREMISES
Clothing accommodation provided or improved 17
Equipment improved or cleansed 98
First Aid equipment provided or improved 40
Floors repaired and floor coverings improved 56
Food storage accommodation improved 24
Hot water provided or restored 32
Hygiene Notices provided 67
Lighting and ventilation improved 25
Protective clothing provided or improved 8
Refrigeration installed or improved 22
Refuse bins provided or renewed 50
Refuse removed 45
Sinks provided or renewed 24
Tables and working surfaces made impervious 32
Walls and ceilings repaired or cleansed 209
29