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23
The methylene blue tests, which indicate whether or not
the milk is of good keeping quality, were not so satisfactory.
34 samples failed this test and although these could be reduced
for the same reasons as given for the phosphatase tests, nevertheless
the percentage of failures was too high and confirmed
the complaints. As this has been the subject of special reports
to the Council, I feel that nothing more need be said here.
The plate counts showed even a higher percentage of
failures, and to a certain extent confirmed the methylene blue
results, but on occasions a satisfactory methylene blue test was
obtained with high plate counts. The plate count is not reliable
because of the fact that non-pathological organisms will often
increase the count without necessarily affecting the keeping
qualities or actual purity.
Some valuable information, however, was gained with all
these samples and allowed me to indicate to the firm in question
many points where improvement in the distribution could be
effected. Lack of cold storage accommodation (since remedied),
lengths of rounds, etc., all entered into the causes of the trouble
and I hope during the next spell of hot weather that the keeping
qualities of this firm's milk will at least equal that of other
milk purveyors.
Nothing further transpired during the year in regard to
the restrictions of sale of raw milk by retail to certain permitted
clases of milk in areas to be specified by the Ministry
of Food.
POOD SUPPLY.
As far as possible, watch is kept on premises where foodstuffs
are prepared or sold, which includes slaughter-houses,
butchers' and fishmongers' shops, bakehouses, dairies, etc.
The following unfit foodstuffs were voluntarily surrendered
and destroyed or handed over for salvage:—