HYGIENIC BACON HANDLING.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVII, 21 September 1927, Page 12

HYGIENIC BACON HANDLING.

MECHANICAL SLICER. INSTALLED BY HAVERA BUSINESS FIRM. A maximum of hygienic and rapid handling with a considerable saving in labour and simplicity of operation arc some of the desirable features of a mechanical bacon slicer recently installed by the proprietor of tlie Cut Rate Stores, Mr G. R. Ilorsburgh, in his High 'Street shop. The machine was demonstrated to a reporter of “The itawera Star” yesterday. After a trifling adjustment for thickness had been made and the electric motor within the slicer started, the demonstrator released a clutch and tbe machine commenced to operate smoothly and rapidly and within a few seconds a neat pile of attractive slices from a side of bacon were- automatically stacked on a piece of parchment paper placed on the tray in readiness for their reception. The most noticeable feature was that at no time after the bacon had been placed on the machine was human handling necessary, which ensured delivery to the customer in a highly hygienic condition. A considerable waste of time which the use of a manual machine necessitates was obviated while the simplicity of adjustment added increased efficiency. The new slicer, which is manufactured by a United States firm, is capable of cutting bacon or cooked liani a-s fine as one fortieth of an inch in thickness and is adjusted in this respect by the mere turning of a dial. A special attachment which can be fitted within a few 'moments renders possible the slicing of the smallest piece of bacon withcut waste. A further feature of the machine is that the cutting wheel can be ground on special grinders with but •i small adjustment. The most modern facilities for cleaning are provided, the- thorough cleansing taking but a tew minutes to complete. The machine i-i stated to have exceeded £2OO in cost.

Mr Ilorsburgh has also installed in his shop special fixtures which provide for the display and storage of such foodstuffs as butter, cheese, bacon and bread under glass, as is now generally recommended on hygienic grounds and will, it is believed, be enforced under the Pure Foods Act in the near future.*