Official Inspections 83. 49 



Corn Canning Factories 



In fortunate cooperation with an inspector from the United 

 States Department of Agriculture, detailed by the Chief of the 

 Bureau of Chemistry to accompany a deputy of tlie State De- 

 partment, a rather complete inspection of the corn factories was 

 made. The cooperation of the deputy sealer of weights and mea- 

 sures was also obtained and in this way rather complete infor- 

 mation was gained as to general sanitary conditions and the raw 

 product used, and the scales and measures employed by the pack- 

 ers were tested. 



Our deputy gave careful attention to the methods employed 

 in packing, noting the source of the water supply, the health 

 and cleanliness of the employees, etc. Some of the factories 

 did not have proper washing and drinking facilities, nor were 

 soap and towels supplied ; other estalilishments, however, had 

 sanitary notices posted, and where their use was not in evidence 

 it was recommended. The use of corn-starch was investigated ; 

 samples from practically all of the factories were obtained and 

 have been examined at the laboratory. Thus far, the results 

 have been most pleasing and indicate that wherever corn starch 

 has been added the fact has been stated upon the label. We are 

 glad to make the general assertion that the average corn packer 

 in the .State of Maine is attempting to put upon the market an 

 excellent product — worthy of the enviable reputation which 

 Maine packed corn bears. 



Bluebzrry Factories 



In two counties in the state — Washington and Hancock — 

 the caning of blueberries has become an important industrial 

 operation and, realizing its importance, we have devoted some 

 time during the past season to the inspection of this industry. 

 From about the 20th of July until the 20th of September, when 

 the season for canning blueberries is at its height, an inspector 

 was assigned to this particular work; he visited sixteen facto- 

 ries, advising with the packers and calling to their attention the 

 rules and regulations of this Bureau providing that factories 

 shall be kept clean and free from dust and cobwebs ; the floors 

 kept clean ; the utensils used in the process of canning cared for 



