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REPORT, 1885-90.
51
Coffee
contained 11 per cent. of adulterated samples. The
adulteration consisted in the addition of from 40 to
90 parts by weight of Chicory. The sample containing
only 10 per cent. of real Coffee was protected by beinglabelled
a mixture, and no proceedings were taken.
The vendor of the sample containing 40 per cent. of
Chicory was prosecuted, and fined £3.
Groceries.
These, in general, proved to be genuine and of
good quality. The Potted Meats showed an absence
of foreign colouring matter, and of metallic impregnation
; They were well-preserved and wholesome.
The general conclusion is that the greatest failure
of the Act is in regard to the sale of Spirits. Magistrates
are very willing to assist the Excise and the
brewer by inflicting high penalties when a prosecution
is undertaken from Somerset House for a dilution of
beer or spirits. It is more difficult, however, to get a
substantial fine imposed when it is only the general
public who suffer.
The sum of £42 10s. has been received by the
Yestry as fines for adulteration.
ALF. W. STOKES, F.C.S., F.I.C.,
Public Analyst