1918.j The N.Z. Journal of Science and Technology. 
345 
•definite method of controlling this estimated loss would be by daily super¬ 
vision during transportation, how is it possible for research in England 
to be of practical benefit to us and indicate how we can reduce the loss ? 
If the true basis of loss during transportation is once established the question 
would practically be settled for all time, and the onus of maintaining that 
basis should be upon the shipping companies. If shipping companies are 
not prepared to guarantee that they will maintain a proven basis and take 
the onus, then it is time that our Government should step in and protect 
the industry by providing transports. 
Summary of Losses. 
The above losses, even if not absolutely correct, give us when put 
together an approximate idea of our loss and efficiency percentage. The 
following table is based on the 1916-17 figures for frozen meat—viz., 
6,342,940 frozen carcases of 60 lb. weight. The assumption is made that 
50 per cent, of the stock is railed or driven some distance as live stock, 
with a loss in weight on this portion of 5 per cent. 
Table showing Losses in Railing and Droving, Freezing, and Transport. 
1916-17 Season. 
Equivalent in 
601b. Carcases. 
Percentage. 
Number of sheep on pastures 
6,920,829 
100-000 
Loss through railing and droving (5 per 
cent, of 50 per cent.) 
173,021 
2-500 
Hot weight . . 
6,747,808 
97-500 
Loss through freezing (6 per cent, of hot 
weight) 
404,868 
5-850 
Frozen weight 
6,342,940 
91-650 
Loss through transportation (2 per cent, of 
frozen weight) 
126,858 
1-833 
Transported weight 
6,216,082 
89-817 
Total loss 
704,747 
10" 183 
Let us assume that by experimenting the loss can be reduced by one- 
seventh, and a saving of, roughly, 100,000 carcases, equalling 6,000,000 lb. 
weight, can be made. It is difficult to estimate the value of this quan¬ 
tity, for it must be taken into account that handling, slaughtering, bagging, 
and shipping costs would not be additional to what are already paid ; 
therefore it should be safe to assume that it would net Id. per pound 
profit, which would make £25,000. The British Army ration being 7 lb. of 
meat per man per week, our loss would ration 850,000 soldiers for over a 
week. 
The question is not what have been our total losses during the history 
of our frozen-meat industry, but what will be our future losses unless this 
matter receives the earnest practical attention of those to whom we entrust 
the welfare of our Dominion. 
