M 75
MEAT INSPECTION.
The usual routine inspection of meat in Markets, abattoirs, etc., has been carried on as thoroughly as possible, and the standard of quality in these places is good.
In all probability, ever since the institution of food inspection in the Colony a small amount of unwholesome food has been smuggled into Hong Kong and Kowloon and sold to lower class restaurants and cooked food shops. Hitherto the amount of this kind of business has been small and not in any way organised.
Of late, it would appear that the business has not only increased greatly, but, that one portion at least of it, is highly organised.
Taking the mortality from all causes during the voyage to the Colony as 1%--a decidedly low figure--this means that during the past year the following numbers of dead or dying animals have reached the vicinity of the Colony but no parts of the carcases of the majority of them have reached the Government depots, abattoirs or controlled establishments.
Cattle Pigs Sheep and Goats 597 carcases 3,344 249 4,190 carcasesIn addition the number of animals arriving in a sick or injured state is probably at least 50% higher than that of the dead and dying.
This means a grand total of 10,475 carcases. 972 have been accounted for.
The evidence available also indicates that the part of the business dealing with dead pigs is not only highly organised but wealthy.
Recent events have shown that a considerable part of the business is either carried on in the New Territories, where there is no regular veterinary staff, or else that the products of the trade reach Hong Kong and Kowloon by way of the New Territories.
It is hoped that the measures being taken, or about to be taken, will be successful in either totally abolishing the trade, or at least reducing it to such an extent that it will no longer constitute a public danger.