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The total number of samples taken was less than during the previous year
i.e. 210 in 1959 compared with 241 in 1958. The number Qf unsatisfactory
samples decreased from 18 in 1958 to 2 in 1959.
The following are the details from the Chief Officer's report on the 2 unsatisfactory
samples and the action taken -
Vinegar and Non-Brented Condiment
Non-brewed condiment, purported to be vinegar, was sold by a firm of greengrocers
who were prosecuted for this offence. Vinegar is a natural product of
the double fermentation of saccharine liquors and contains secondary products
known as enzymes which confer upon vinegar its superior flavour and aroma. The
artificial product is inferior both in taste and flavour and consists of a
solution of acetic acid. Both products must contain at least 4 per cent of
acetic acid. In this case the imitation product sold was also deficient in
acetic acid to the extent of at least 21 per cent. A fine of £10. 0s. Od. was
imposed with £5. 13s. Od. costs.
Merchandise Marks Acts, 1887-1953
The majority of the inspection work carried out under the provisions of
the above Acts is to ensure compliance with the requirements of the various
Marking Orders made under the provisions of the Act of 1926. These Orders
apply to the marking of the country of origin on imported foodstuffs, principally
meat, apples, tomatoes, dried fruits, bacon, ham, poultry, butter and
honey, upon sale and exposure for sale. Inspections were made at 106 premises
of 291 displays of these foodstuffs, and no infringements were noted.
Labelling of Food Order, 1953
This Order requires pre-packed food to be marked with the name and address,
or with the registered trade mark of the packer or labeller. It also requires
such food to be labelled with its common or usual name (if any), and in the
case of a compounded food, with the names of the ingredients in descending
order of proportion by weight. Furthermore it controls the manner in which
the presence of vitamins and minerals is disclosed and prescribes specific
labelling of certain foods. A total of 279 articles of pre-packed food was
examined at 63 different premises to verify compliance with these Regulations.
False and Misleading Descriptions
Food advertisements and labels have been scrutinised for false and misleading
statements and descriptions. No serious infringements were disclosed.
Corrective action taken within the whole area of the County has equal effect
within each County district, and work under this heading is combined with inspections
made under the terms of the Merchandise Marks Acts and the Labelling
of Food Order.
A number of firms have labelled tins of Instant Coffee as "100% Pure
Coffee". This product consists of the instantly soluble solids of coffee
obtained by a process of dehydration. The insoluble portion of the bean is
omitted. Representations have been made to have the description amended so
that the product is not claimed to be whole coffee. Action has also been taken
in connection with slimming claims as a result of taking lemon juice drinks.
There is no clinical proof that the consumption of lemon juice will reduce
weight, and the firms concerned have been requested to indicate that the drink
is merely one suitable for inclusion in a slimming diet.
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