HC Deb 20 April 1939 vol 346 cc485-6
33. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Minister of Health the percentage of water content in the bread sold in England and in the United States, respectively?

Mr. Bernays

I have no recent information as to the average water content of bread sold in this country. In the United States, as I understand, certain kinds of bread are defined as having a maximum of 38 per cent. of moisture one hour or more after baking, but I have no further information.

Mr. De la Bère

Will my hon. Friend take steps to find out this information, which can be obtained, and is it not very desirable in the interests of the country that those figures should be obtained?

Mr. Bernays

I will see what can be done.

Mr. De la Bère

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that I really mean that I want the information?

Mr. Bernays

I bore that in mind in giving my answer.

Mr. J. Morgan

Is there no standard for water in bread as there is for water in milk?

Mr. Bernays

No, Sir, there is none.

Mr. Leslie Boyce

Is it not a fact that there is about 98 per cent. of water in an individual?