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39
to hear it. Inasmuch as there was likely to be a conflict of opinion as to the
analysis ,he suggested that a few tins should be supplied to an independent analyst
for analysis. This was accordingly done. The result of this independent analysis
was as follows : —
No. 1 contained 6-93 grains of tin per lb.
No. 2 contained 4 41 grains of tin per lb.
No. 3 contained 3 78 grains of tin per lb.
No. 4 contained 3 01 grains of tin per lb.
No trace of lead was found in any of the four samples.
In his remarks the firm's analyst stated that " a not inconsiderable number of
specks of solder was found interspersed with the Salmon. These specks had evidently
dropped through the vent-liole, while the latter was being soldered up. As
solder is a mixture of lead and tin, it was of course of the highest importance not
to include any of the metallic matter in question in the sample of salmon itself.
The pieces of salmon used for analysis were carefully examined, and the visible pieces
of solder removed. The pieces, in any case, would not be eaten by the purchaser,
and if accidentally swallowed would probably not do any harm. If included in the
analysis they would obviously mislead the analyst as to the condition of the article.
Both samples are perfectly free from lead. Both, however, contain a small trace of
tin. There is no tinned meat to be found in commerce which on careful analysis
does not show minute traces of dissolved tin."
As only one or two samples had been found to contain lead, and the independent
analyst found none, it is evident that we were as careful to pick out the
small specks of solder as the firm's analyst had been. I disagreed with his deductions.
In the first place, I do not believe these specks of solder are ever looked
for by the public and afterwards thrown away. In fact, the specks are so small
that it requires very careful examination to detect them at all. In the second
place, I hold that the lead, even in the small trace that is found in solder (which
is an alloy of tin and lead), would have been so acted upon by the gastric and
intestinal juices as to be rendered absorbable. Whether it would be absorbed or
not, metallic tin and lead would be liable to act as an irritant to the delicate mucous
membrane of the stomach and intestines.
On January 8th, Messrs. Gibbons surrendered the whole consignment as trade
refuse, and signed a document that they would pay all expenses incurred in their
destruction.
It was a pity in one sense that the case did not go on, as I believe this would
have been the first time that the question of the wholesomeness of canned goods