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particular strain of Clostridium Welchii was recovered in large numbers from remains
of the minced meat and vegetables, and a similar organism was found in faeces from
patients and staff. The source of the organism has not been determined. It mayhave
been already present in the meat on arrival at the canteen, when the spores of
the organism, having withstood cooking would grow-profusely overnight under the
conditions of storage.
Meat dishes should be cooked and eaten the same day or if this is impossible
they should be stored in a refrigerator overnight in such a way that rapid cooling
is encouraged.
Increased attention has been paid to all premises where food is handled and
prepared for human consumption, one hundred and thirty-eight visits having been
made. From the advice given concerning the overall tidiness of such places, cleanliness
and methods of handling, some improvements have been effected. It is not
always realised that the ordinary domestic procedure in the kitchen, whilst quite
suitable for the small family circle, is not of a sufficiently high standard when
catering for large numbers of the public in cafes, restaurants etc. The attainment
of the standard which should prevail is a process of education which has been
carried on by Sanitarians for some years. During and since the war, the public
has taken to "eating out" to a far greater extent than ever before, and we are now
assisted in our work by their livelier interest which has developed in this subject.
In December, the Ministry of Food issued copies of their Model Byelaws Series
I, concerning "Handling Wrapping and Delivery of Food and Sale of Food in the Open
Air", which will constitute a further aid.
It remains, however, that the rigid enforcement of the law does not bring about
the whole hearted co-operation of all sides of the food industry which is \necessary
to reach the high standards desired.
POLLUTION OF WATERCOURSES.
Two major instances of watercourse pollution were traced and remedied, amongst
others, during the year,
The first concerned pollution caused by the absence of proper means' of
drainage to a farmhouse and premises, and it was rie-cessary for the Council to use
their Statutory powers to carry out the work of providing a sewage disposal plant
in default of the owners. Action for the recovery of the costs, amounting to