View report page

24
rigid standard, I do not allow for one moment that my opinion
of the results was incorrect. A margin has been allowed by the
Chemists of Somerset House, which I shall be obliged to accept
until it is altered.
What we complain of is this: that the Authorities of Somerset
House give an opinion without any analysis, so that we are unable
to judge of the value of their opinion. I gave a full analysis.
The Chemists of Somerset House simply stated that, from the
results of a full analysis, we are of opinion that the butter is
genuine.
If we had been represented by a lawyer, I believe the magistrate
would not even have allowed the expense of the analysis, as he
clearly saw my point after the adjudication of the second case in
which Somerset House had confirmed my analysis. In the case of
milks, we know something of the opinions of the Authorities,
although as Public Analysts we deny their premisses; and, in the
case of butters, I know not what allowances must be made.
A sample of Lard and a sample of Dripping were both of the
nature and quality demanded. The dripping was not quite as
clean as it might have been.
Of two Breads, one sample gave indications of the presence of
alum. The quantity amounted only to 5.2 grains per four-pound
loaf.
My information upon the subject of Corn-flours is now sufficient
for all practical purposes. The two which have been analysed
contain so little nitrogen that for infants' food they must be made
up according to the directions, with milk, or they could not
support life.
Coffees, two in number, were genuine. So also was a Mustard
and a Pickled Cabbage.
The certificates are all in the hands of your Inspector.
18th June, 1883.
I propose to take a rapid survey of the analytical work done by
your Analyst during the past twelvemonth, and I am glad to be
able on the whole to report progress.
Milks, of course, occupy the first place; 44 have been examined,
of which 10 were very considerably adulterated with from 10 to
32 per cent. of water. This means upwards of 22½ per cent. of
adulteration. Carbonate of Soda has been somewhat extensively
employed, in order to prevent the souring of the milk; in one
case we have had as much as 87½ grains per gallon.