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103
LABELLING OF FOOD
During the latter part of the year a survey was carried out under the
following Regulations with regard to the labelling of certain products:—
Dried Milk Regulations 1965.
Skimmed Milk with non-milk fat Regulations 1960.
Labelling of Food Order 1953.
Food Standards (Cream) Order 1951.
Condensed Milk Regulations 1959.
Merchandise Marks Act 1926.
Commodities examined were dried milks; instant milks; evaporated
milks; sweets and certain commodities on the market which resemble
cream. In addition, advisory and technical literature about a number of
products were also examined.
In all cases, except for the commodities resembling cream, any points
arising were taken up with the Producers or Distributors concerned, and in
all but one case, agreement was reached on the revised correct labelling.
In the one case outstanding, the manufacturers concerned are in the process
of revising the label and it is anticipated that this matter will also be
carried to a successful conclusion. It is interesting to note that these labelling
offences were not solely confined to the small manufacturer, but
whether large or small, in all cases co-operation was readily forthcoming,
and extremely useful information was gained by all concerned.
In respect of commodities resembling cream, there are at present
certain products on the market which whilst not called cream, resemble
cream in appearance and use; they are invariably sterilised; sterilised cream
should contain 23% fat, whereas these commodities contain 18% butterfat.
Guidance on this matter was sought from the Labelling Division of
the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, and their comments are
awaited.
There is also certain chocolate confectionery on the market which
resembles chocolate but, in fact, is not chocolate and it has been suggested
to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food that steps should be
taken to control the labelling of these products.
FERTILIZERS AND FEEDING STUFFS
The Fertilizers and Feeding Stuffs Act controls the composition of
fertilizers and feeding stuffs.
Samples taken 7
Satisfactory 4
Unsatisfactory 3
Fertilizers are tested for the amounts of Nitrogen, Potash and Phosphoric
acid present; and as a check against the declaration as shown on
the packet or bottle.