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Fruit Juice, Squash, etc. A sample of fruit drink labelled
simply "Blackcurrant" was found upon analysis to consist of
10 per cent. blackcurrant juice and 20 per cent. grape juice. The
manufacturers had obtained advice as to the proper labelling of
this product and a misunderstanding had arisen. In view of these
special circumstances an official caution was issued and the name
changed to " Blackcurrant Drink."
Sausages. Sausages supplied to a school kitchen were found
to contain preservative, although its presence was not declared as
required by the Public Health (Preservatives, etc., in Food) Regulations
1925 to 1958. The matter was taken up with the supplier
concerned who immediately remedied the omission. An official
caution was given in this case.
Vinegar. Four samples of vinegar obtained from retailers
were found to be below the minimum acetic acid content of 4 per
cent. Vinegar sold from the barrel deteriorates during storage
and in each case this was found to be the cause. The deficiencies
were not large and official cautions were issued.
Merchandise Marks Acts, 1887 - 1953. The majority of the
inspection work carried out under the provisions of the above Acts
relates to ensuring that the requirements of the various Marking
Orders made under the provisions of the Act of 1926 are complied
with. These Orders apply to the marking of the country of origin
on imported foodstuffs, principally meat, apples, tomatoes, currants,
raisins, sultanas, bacon, ham, poultry, butter and honey, upon sale
and exposure for sale. Inspections were made at 294 premises of
1,026 displays of these foodstuffs. Any infringements detected
were of a minor nature and were dealt with by verbal warning.
Labelling of Food Order, 1953. This Order requires pre-packed
food to be marked with the name and address, or with the Registered
Trade Mark, of the packer or labeller. It also requires such food
to be labelled with its common or usual name (if any), and in the
case of a compounded food with the names of the ingredients in
descending order of proportion by weight. It also controls the
manner in which the presence of vitamins and minerals is disclosed
and prescribes specific labelling of certain foods. A total of 1,171
articles of pre-packed food was examined at 294 different premises
to ascertain whether there was compliance with the above regulations.
False and Misleading Descriptions. Food advertisements and
labels have been scrutinised for false and misleading statements
and descriptions. No serious infringements were disclosed. Corrective
action taken within the whole area of the County has equal
effect within the Boroughs, and work under this heading is combined