View report page

Apart from the discovery of disease or dirty dressing, the thawing and examination also
reveals by the presence or absence of incisions or the method of incision to what extent meat
inspection has been carried out in the country of origin.
Bacteriological Sampling
The drawing of samples and the administration entailed in the detention of considerable
quantities of meat from the different meat exporting countries has occupied a great deal of the
Inspectors' time.
It is clearly established that the production of boneless meat for human consumption involves
a much greater risk of initial contamination during the operation of cutting and boning and this
may give rise to a public health hazard by spreading food poisoning organisms when the meats
are used in the preparation of various meat products. The Port of London has continued to deal
realistically with this problem and the allied problem of contaminated meats intended for the pets
food trade. Meat samples drawn for bacteriological examination numbered 3,782, as follows
Total Samples Drawn Positive for Salmonellae
percentage
Boneless beef 1676 17.6
Horse meat 1727 33.6
Boneless mutton 123 10.6
Rabbits 86 5.8
Boneless veal 170 1.8
Examination Facilities
Physical examination and bacteriological sampling on such a large scale has strained the
resources available and, often, the size of the examination centre at No. 6 Cold Store has been
found inadequate, the volume of work being such that the floor space imposed a limit on the
output which, otherwise, should be limited only by the needs of the Authority's policy and the
availability of Inspectors to carry it out.
Unsound Meat Investigation
A major investigation was carried out by the Meat Inspectors into the movement of 11,000
cartons of imported veal which previously had been found unfit for human consumption, but were
later traded into human consumption channels. This investigation involved tracing every carton
to its destination and ultimate owner. The co-operation of other local authorities was sought and
was, of course, willingly given. Suitable warnings were issued to every Authority into whose
district the meat had been delivered or was used and, although several months passed in this time
consuming search, the outcome fully justified the effort.
The City of London Police collaborated throughout this investigation and particular appreciation
is due to them for their assistance.
FOOD SAMPLING
Inspectors
During the year 1712 samples of tea were examined on the dock and approved.
29
results and subsequent detention of similar consignments has usually resulted in a marked improvement.