Manufacture.—From whatever source the arrow root may be derived, the process of manufacture is practically the same. The fresh roots are washed and are then grated to a fine pulp. This pulp is diluted with water and repeatedly strained, diluted and settled to remove all fibrous material, and also to extract the coloring matter and a bitter principle which is more or less prominent in all the roots used in the manufacture of the starch. The com mercial value of the arrowroot is largely depen dent on the number of washings, as each successive washing renders the starch whiter, more palatable and more easily digested, though it is said that the darker-colored product which has been given fewer washings is more effective when used for the cura tive treatment of dysentery.
Arrow-root starch is not now produced in the United States, but a starch made from cassava (Manihot utilissima) is used very largely as a substitute, and appears to be more valuable. Cassava is grown extensively in Florida, and its cultivation is extending westward along the gulf coast to Texas.
The following notes on Bermuda arrow-root are by T. J. Harris, Superintendent of Public Gardens, Hamilton, Bermuda : "The commercial value of the arrow-root de pends largely on the soil and climate in which it is grown and the care bestowed on its manufacture.
The St. Vincent product is sold for 2d. per pound, while Bermuda arrow-root brings ls. 9d. per pound in the open market. It is of special value as food for invalids, as it contains nothing whatever of a deleterious nature. Dissolved and injected with laudanum, it is a specific for extreme cases of dysentery. In Bermuda, every care is taken to ensure absolute cleanliness, the natural conditions aiding in this respect: the soil in which the rhizomes are grown is a red, sandy loam derived from coral rock, and is quite devoid of volcanic mineral substances; the per petually damp at mosphere ensures the gradual and even deposition of each successive layer on the starch granule ; the water used in the washing is distilled in a dust less atmosphere and caught on immacu late lime - washed roofs.
"There is but one factory in Bermuda, working on a capital of £3,000 and paying about 10 per cent per annum.
"An acre of arrow-root in Bermuda will yield in a fair season about 14,000 pounds of rhizomes, 15 per cent of which is recovered as dried starch."