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218
Of these 30 samples, ten were distinctly
adulterated with water, and I have furnished our
Inspectors with Certificates to that effect. It has
been proved to the satisfaction of one of the Magistrates
presiding at Lambeth, that the Milks were
delivered in the adulterated state by the wholesale
dealer. Now this is a more serious offence than when
Milk is mixed with London tap-water, as the quality
of the water in the country is often deleterious, and
the Magistrates thus considered it by imposing a fine
of £10, and £2 14s. 6d. costs. Nevertheless I
would again call attention to the employment of the
Lactometer, which is at least a great protection to
the vendor.
One of the Milks, No. 241, contained 23 per
cent, of Cream, and 7.25 per cent, of Butter; in spite
of which the solids, not fat, were up to the correct
standard. Either the vendor did not understand his
business, and skimmed off the cream, or he thought
thus to escape detection if the milk were adulterated.
This practice of skimming is very much to be
condemned, and it ought to be a matter of conscience
with those who will have cream, to purchase the
necessary quantity of milk, so as to furnish the