Mandaue to disallow use of industrial dye on fish, meat sold in markets

CEBU, Philippines – Mandaue City is making clear it is against the use of industrial dye and temporary color on fish and meat sold at the city public market.

The city council has approved a proposed measure on first reading prohibiting the use of industrial dye, of any kind, or temporary color on fish and meat products for sale in public and private markets, supermarkets, or any place within the city.

Mandaue City Councilor Jimmy Lumapas authored the proposal.

Under the proposed ordinance, industrial dye, of any kind, shall not be used by any person, company or any entity for the sole purpose of deceiving the buying public with the true color and freshness of the fish and meat products on display.

Industrial dye contains chemical elements that are hazardous to human health, health authorities said.

Under the proposal, violators shall be fined of not less than P1,000 but not more than P5,000 or suffer an imprisonment of not more than 45 days, or both, fine and imprisonment at the sole discretion of the court.

Once the ordinance is approved, the Mandaue City police, market authority, barangay officials and barangay tanods shall be asked to enforce it. (THE FREEMAN)