‘Hot meat’ seized in Cebu City

CEBU, Philippines — Uninspected meats continue to appear in Cebu City’s wet markets despite prohibitions under national and local food safety laws.

On April 6, the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries (DVMF), backed by the Cebu City Police Office, seized 4.3 kilos of mechanically deboned meat (MDM) at Carbon Market Unit I.

The action came just two weeks after inspectors confiscated 20 kilos of pork menudo cut and 50 kilos of MDM in the same market.

Authorities said both operations violated Cebu City Ordinance 2189 and Department of Agriculture Administrative Order No. 6, which prohibit improper handling of chilled, frozen, or thawed meat in wet markets.

MDM, a paste-like product derived from mechanically separating edible meat from bones, is widely used in processed foods such as hotdogs, sausages, nuggets, and luncheon meat.

Although high in protein, its texture and handling requirements make it unsafe for direct retail sale. Regulations restrict its use to accredited processors who can ensure hygienic standards.

Confiscated products are condemned and buried to prevent them from reentering the food chain.

The crackdown has extended beyond MDM.

On April 5, lechon vendors in Talamban and Inayawan were caught selling pork without Meat Inspection Certificates.

Inspectors seized 13.8 kilos of lechon from an unregistered ambulant vendor and butcher in Talamban, and 24 kilos from another seller in Inayawan. Both cases also violated Ordinance 2189.

DVMF has previously stressed that these enforcement drives rest on a broad legal framework including Republic Act 9296, the Meat Inspection Code of the Philippines; Republic Act 10536, which strengthens enforcement and penalties; Republic Act 7394, the Consumer Act; and Republic Act 10611, the Food Safety Act of 2013.

The Department of Agriculture also prohibits co-mingling of meat products and mandates hygienic handling. These measures make clear that uncertified meat and MDM are not for direct sale to consumers.

DVMF continues to urge vigilance, reminding buyers to demand Meat Inspection Certificates. Violations, the department warned, not only endanger public health but also expose vendors to sanctions, fines, and closure of establishments. — /MRM (FREEMAN)