Public warned vs “hot meat”

CEBU, Philippines – With the high demand for meat leading this season, the provincial government has cautioned consumers against the so-called “hot meat”.

 Dr. Mary Ann Gabona, chief of the public health division of the provincial veterinarian’s office, clarified though that they have not received reports of “hot meat” in markets in the province.

She explained that “hot meat” is sourced from livestock slaughtered illegally, which may be unsafe for consumption and are prone to contaminants.

 “In other words, these were butchered outside the slaughterhouses,” the Provincial Information Office quoted Gabona as saying.

 She advised consumer to look for a meat inspection certificate (MIC) when they buy meat to ensure safety. This is a right of consumers provided by the Consumer Act of the Philippines.

Gabona said the certificate will prove that the meats have passed the ante-mortem and post mortem inspections by local meat inspectors. It also reflects the date of the slaughter.

 She added that the procedure is mandatory for slaughterhouses.

In the ante-mortem inspection, only those healthy animals will be butchered, while in post-mortem, those internal parts of the animals found to have abnormalities are not allowed to be sold in the market.

 Gabona noted that safe meat appears pinkish and does not smell foul.

Last October, at least 70 kilos of hot meat were seized by authorities at the public market in Barangay Tabunok, Talisay City. Authorities found out that the livestock were not slaughtered at the Talisay City Slaughterhouse or any accredited slaughter facility.

 The seizure came days before the city’s fiesta celebration.

Capitol has been conducting meat inspection trainings since last year. —/JMO (FREEMAN)