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Bacteriological examination of samples of the prawns procured
from the Stepney firm showed the presence of Staphylococcus aureus and
other Staphylococci. Investigation showed that the prawns were cooked
and packed in Norway in 1-lb. and J-lb. waxed cartons and refrigerated.
The frozen prawns were sent from Norway by refrigerated ship and train,
and were kept in efficient refrigerators by the Stepney importers and
sent to their customers in insulated refrigerated containers. At no
time after refrigeration in Norway were the prawns unfrozen or handled
until unpacked at the restaurant.
The danger from the prawns arises after delivery to the restaurant
where they may be kept in conditions suitable for the growth of food
poisoning toxins. No Staphylococcal infection of the prawns is likely
to become dangerous unless given temperature and time to produce toxins.
The matter was reported to the Ministry of Health, who approached
the Norwegian authorities with a view to improving the hygiene at the
packing station at Stavangar. The Stepney importers agreed that in
future the cartons should carry a printed note to the effect that,
until used, the prawns should be kept continuously at a temperature
below 40 F.
Export Certificates.
Twenty-seven certificates were issued in respect of the examination
of a variety of foodstuffs for export to the United States, South America,
Canada, Sweden, Italy and France.
Such certificates necessitate the inspection of the foodstuffs to be
exported, and, on occasions, samples are taken for analysis before a
certificate is issued.
Food Stalls.
Legal proceedings were instituted on two occasions; one for the
depositing of foodstuffs (groceries) within 18 inches of the ground,
which resulted in a fine of £2 with £3. 7s. costs being imposed, and
one for selling ground almonds which were not of the substance demanded.
In the latter case the proprietor was fined £10 with £3. 7s. costs.
Food Hygiene Regulations. 1955.
Applications were made by the occupiers of two food premises for
exemption from compliance with certain requirements of the Regulations.
In one case the application was acceded to, and in the other refused.
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