Some observations on the microscopy of lard and rearranged lard

Phase contrast and polarized light microscopy were employed to observe the crystalline nature of lard and rearranged lard. Special attention was given to the technique of specimen preparation, controlled conditions of tempering the sample, and photographic reproduction of crystal appearance. Photomicrographs are reproduced to show the difference in appearance of the crystals from lard and rearranged lard when both polarized light and phase contrast are employed. The peculiar long, thread-like crystals characteristic of lard are more clearly shown with phase contrast.