62 • ANNUAX. REPORT OF THE Off. Doc. 



FOOD PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED. 



Among the many all-important questions that are now being- agitated by pure 

 food authorities, are the following: 



The use of sulphur in dried fruits and molasses. 



The problem as to the use of benzoate of soda in ketchup, preserved fruits and 

 fruit syrups. 



The proper labeling of corn syrup or glucose. 



The various questions involved are so far-reaching and the interests affected 

 so extensive and valuable that the otncials are inclined to give them every pos- 

 sible consideration, but no concession inimical to public health could be granted; 

 neither will these officials permit the public to be imposed upon, through labels 

 that misrepresent goods, or which claim merits and qualities that are entirely 

 false, or absolutely misleading. 



There is also no question as to the importance of deciding the various prob- 

 lems according to correct principles of business, but these decisions must not 

 be such as to prejudice the interests of the consumer. The sale of both adulter- 

 ated goods in Pennsylvania will not be permitted, and it is to be hoped that 

 this matter will be fully and definitely understood. 



THE MONTHLY BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU. 



With the advent of a new State administration and the appointment of the 

 present Dairy and Food Commissioner, there came a strong demand for a 

 change in the publication of the Monthly Bulletin issued by this Bureau. It 

 was determined that among the new features added, special stress should be 

 placed upon its educational features. Under the direction of some of the best 

 writers, the Bulletin has achieved increased success as an educator, and the 

 publication to-day stands foremost amongst its class in the United States. 

 The enactment and approval of the "Tustin Act," known as the new pure 

 food law, and the repeal of the old and tried pure food law of June 36, 1895, 

 opened a flood of inquiries for information which it was only possible to supply 

 through the medium of the columns of the Bulletin. The manufacturers, 

 jobbers and the retail trade in particular, have expressed themselves in com- 

 mendatory language as to the benefits received through this medium of pub- 

 licity, and all without any cost, whatever. 



Each number of the Bulletin contains a variety of crisp, pungent and sea- 

 sonable editorials upon subjects relating to the advancement of the pure food 

 cause, while the laws and rulings adopted by the Bureau also receive publicity. 

 In this manner the trade in general has an avenue for obtaining reliable and 

 trustworthy information. In consequence of this gratuitous advice, no one 

 need plead ignorance of the law, since an adoption of the information imparted 

 will in most cases protect them against prosecution or financial loss. 



The law makes the publication of this Bulletin mandatory, and its useful- 

 ness was never attested more fully than during_ the year just closed. While 

 the grocers of Pennsylvania almost generally receive the Bulletin, those not 

 receiving it can have their names and addresses placed upon the regular mail- 

 ing list by writing and requesting it to be done. The press of Pennsylvania 

 and trade journals are making liberal extracts from the Bulletin for the infor- 

 mation of their readers, and if practicable, the publication will be improved 

 during the coming year and made still more valuable and interesting. 



Several other states are now disseminating information upon the pure food 

 subject through similar publications, having observed its feasibility and use- 

 fulness. Pennsylvania long ago realized that publicity was an all-important 

 accessory and helpful factor in fighting adulterated dairy and food products. 

 The legitimate producei- and retailer are unstinted in praise for the benefits 

 received through the work of educating the public to demand pure, wholesome 

 and genuine food products. The Bulletin can truthfully be said to lead all 

 others of its class, both in point of practical information and circulation. 'It 

 never contains any advertising matter, and no subscription fees can be 

 accepted. 



VALUE AND IMPORTANCE OF NEW LAW BULLETIN. 



In the dissemination of information concerning the dairy and food laws of 

 the Commonwealth, it was found necessary to compile and publish a new 

 edition of such laws as are now on the statute books and in full force and 

 effect. The same were printed in bulletin form CBulletin No. 160), and including 

 the appellate court decisions, comprise about 70 pages of material that is 

 invaluflile in the work of enforcing these laws. 



Although the former editions included only the food and dairy laws, it was 

 deemed advisable to add a digest or summary of the various appellate court 

 decisions and opinions relating to oleomargarine, renovated butter, food and 

 milk, which matter was included in the new publication. This additional matter 

 has greatly aided the special agents, attorneys and others in the conduct of 

 hearings, trials, etc. The specific laws and interpretations are plain. 



