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A bacteriological examination of pet food sold in this Borough was made. Seventy-four samples
of raw and processed food were obtained, of which eleven (fifteen per cent.) were unsatisfactory in
that pathogenic organisms were found. The traders were informed in each case so that adequate
precautions could be taken to prevent cross contamination from the raw food to cooked or processed
food and to the handlers.
FOOD COMPLAINTS
Food articles purchased by members of the public were the subject of 159 complaints received by
the Health Department and all were thoroughly investigated. 27 of the articles were submitted to
the Public Analyst for his opinion.
Complaints of particular interest included such articles as a jar of honey containing glass, a steak
and kidney pie containing a piece of hide, a tin of prunes containing a strip of steel and a nail, and
several loaves of bread with such articles as screws and nails.
Prosecutions were taken in 14 cases, all of which were successful, fines ranging from £20 to £10
being imposed and totalling £260 with £96 12s. 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 pesticides in countries from which
food is imported varies considerably.
This survey will make it possible for an assessment to be made of the present extent of pesticides
on a variety of foods and could be of considerable assistance in deciding the need for any further action.
The number and type of food samples to be taken by each food and drugs authority participating in
the scheme was agreed in advance. In this borough a total of 6 samples was purchased before the end
of the year. The food articles concerned were specified types of pears, lettuce, pork, bacon, pork
sausages and infant meat food. No sample showed a significant amount of pesticide.
69.