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Bacteriological Examination of Other Foods
In addition to the bacteriological examination of particular types of foods
referred to in earlier paragraphs of this report, 190 samples of frozen seafoods of a
wide variety were submitted to the laboratory. The samples were from consignments
imported into the Borough and released from the Port of London without examination.
Of these, 21 samples were found to be below the bacteriological standards adopted by
the London Riparian Medical Officers' Committee, but the results were such as to
permit the consignment to be released with a warning that they be used immediately
after thawing.
Articles of food which were the subject of consumer complaints, and food
specimens obtained in the investigation of suspect cases of food poisoning and other
infections, numbered 21 but no harmful organisms were found on examination. Two
samples of milk obtained from dispensers in cafes and restaurants were unsatisfactory
due to inadequate care in cleaning equipment. Advice was given in these cases and
supervision of the cleaning process carried out with improved results. Three samples
of cream were found to contain faecal coliform organisms but repeat samples were
satisfactory.
Food Complaints
Food articles purchased by members of the public were the subject of 151 complaints
received by the Health Department and all were thoroughly investigated. 24 of
the articles were submitted to the Public Analyst for his opinion.
Complaints of particular interest included such articles as parsley and thyme
stuffing containing spider beetles, a jar of beetroot containing glass and a steak and
kidney pie containing a medical plaster.
Prosecutions were taken in 21 cases, all of which were successful, fines ranging
from £20 to £5 being imposed and totalling £250 with £117. 7s. costs to the Council.
Pesticides Survey
The Council continued to participate in a systematic survey to detect traces of
pesticides in common foods. A number of local authorities are taking part in the
scheme, which has been prepared by the Association of Public Analysts in consultation
with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.
The sale and use of pesticides in this country is controlled by a Government
voluntary scheme but this, of course, only covers home produced food. The control of
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