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bulk imported supplies containing 4 to 4.5% moisture. The packaging materials were
not sufficiently impervious to prevent hygroscopic action taking place and representations
were made to improve both the moisture content of the bulk supply and the
quality of the packing. Legal action in one case resulted in a fine of £20 0s. Od. and
£9 19s. Od. costs.
Blue V.R.S., an artificial colouring matter removed from the permitted list in
1966, was found in a sample of imported confectionery. Stocks were removed from
retail distribution.
The decoration on an imported Easter egg was fixed in position with a small
piece of wire. This is a hazard, particularly for a small child, and representations to
the importer have resulted in an assurance that the manufacturers will cease this
practice.
Some samples of liqueur flavoured chocolates were found to be of a quality
below the generally accepted standard of 8% proof spirit and this was drawn to the
attention of the importers.
A jar of yoghourt was displayed with a hand-written notice that it contained
three times higher protein. There is no statutory standard for this commodity but
this brand contained no greater quantity of protein than the normal protein content.
The retailer was convicted of the offence, but the manufacturer of several other
brands of yoghourt on whose literature the notice was based could not be brought
before the Court, and an absolute discharge was given to the retailer on payment of
costs totalling £15 4s. Od.
A liquid sweetening product, for cooking, contained Benzoic Acid which is not
permitted in this type of food. A summons was withdrawn on payment of costs and
withdrawal of the stocks from retailers.
A number of warnings have been given to bakers/confectioners for displaying
"cream" tickets on buns and cakes containing imitation cream.
Each year sees an increase in the number and variety of products designed for
the "slim conscious" and extreme vigilance needs to be exercised to ensure that
advertising and labelling do not mislead. A recent survey suggests that many adults
are in some degree overweight and nutritional and dietary claims aimed at them are
becoming commonplace. The year saw the introduction of a national periodical for
the overweight, and in the U.S.A. the production of slimming foods and dietary
supplements is reported to have become a large industry. Implementation of the
report of the Food Standards Committee on Claims and Misleading Descriptions,
issued in 1966, is still awaited and it is hoped that regulations will be laid before
Parliament shortly. These should do much to strengthen the hands of Food and
Drugs Authorities who, at the moment, have to rely mainly on persuasion.
Obesity may be a complex problem and sufferers would be well advised to
consult their general medical practitioner.
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