54 Milk Tests for Farmers in Somerset, [april, 



was not sold as " maize meal " but as a patent American meal. 

 The " sale note " was produced in support, with the result that 

 the case as regards the invoice was dismissed, but a fine of £io, 

 including costs, was imposed for selling the meal without dis- 

 closing the fact that it contained an ingredient worthless for 

 feeding purposes. 



In connection with the arrangements made in a number of 

 counties in Great Britain for testing milk for farmers, dairymen, 

 and cowkeepers (see Leaflet 146), the 



farmers in Somerset at the rate of 6d. per sample. These tests 

 will be made by the Gerber apparatus and will indicate the 

 approximate percentage of butter-fat in the milk. Cheese- 

 makers who so desire can be supplied with particulars of the 

 specific gravity, fat content, other solids, and total solids, at 

 the rate of is. per sample and 6d. for every additional 

 sample. 



It is of interest to note that for some years past the theory 

 and practice of the Gerber tests have been taught at this school 

 to the lads taking the third and fourth year in the Rural 

 Economy class, so that when they leave school and go on to 

 farms they are able to carry out tests for themselves. Public 

 demonstrations of the method have also been given for a series 

 of years at the Mid-Somerset Agricultural Show by the head- 

 master of the school. 



The school has also for some years, in conjunction with the 

 Mid-Somerset Agricultural Society, undertaken to test milk for 

 farmers at is. per sample, but comparatively few farmers have 

 taken advantage of the arrangement. In 1901 four farmers 

 sent six samples of mixed milk, while in 1905 ten farmers sent 

 twenty samples, fifteen of which were mixed milk, four were 

 samples from single cows, and one was a sample of separated 

 milk. It is hoped that the reduction in the fee charged may 

 have the effect of encouraging Somersetshire farmers to make 

 more extended use of the advantages placed at their disposal. 



Milk Tests 

 for Farmers in 

 Somerset. 



Shepton Mallet Grammar School have 

 now, at the suggestion of the Board, agreed 

 to carry out tests on similar lines for 



