I20 AGRICULTURE OF MAINE. 



variety of the product of the factories, were obtained; these 

 samples have been examined at the laboratory and the results 

 have shown a cleanly and attractive product. 



It is with considerable pleasure that the statement is made, 

 that the cooperation of the state and federal departments, the 

 excellent inspection which has begun with the National Canners' 

 Association, together with the apparent willingness of the pack- 

 ers themselves, have gone a long way toward producing a pro- 

 duct which can be placed on a parity with the Norwegian or 

 French brands of sardines, and overcoming the prejudice which 

 has existed against the Maine product. 



Herring Industry: During the month of November, a tour of 

 inspection by a state inspector, accompanied by an inspector 

 from the Bureau of Chemistry, was made among the smoked 

 and boneless herring industries around Eastport, Lubec and 

 Machiasport. Particular attention was given to the health and 

 cleanliness of the employees and a general index gained as to 

 the character of the work, factory buildings, equipment and 

 materials used; also, as to processes of manufacture and ap- 

 pearance of the finished product, as well as the disposition of 

 waste materials. Wherever conditions were found existing 

 which were not in accordance with our regulations, recom- 

 mendations were made for improvement. We regret to state 

 that in some instances the surroundings were not particularly 

 sanitary and the facilities afforded for the comfort of the help 

 were decidedly deficient. In some of the factories, the floors 

 and benches were in poor condition. When it is considered 

 that boneless herring are, in a great many instances, eaten with- 

 out cooking or application of heat, or subjected to any sterilizing 

 process — going direct to the consumer — it is very important 

 that sanitary conditions should obtain in factories where this 

 product is prepared. A further investigation of this industry 

 will be undertaken during the coming season. 



Cooperative Work. 



We have been aided greatly in our inspection work by the 

 right of recommending prosecution to the federal department on 

 account of authority given by the United States Department 

 through the Collaborating State Officials Commission. It ha^ 



