‘Hot meat’ seized in Talisay market

CEBU, Philippines - A task force in Talisay City confiscated about 200 kilos of assorted hot meat in Tuesday evening operation in Lagtang Public Market.

The operation, led by city veterinarian Dr. Santiago Holter, was carried out by the Talisay Meat Task Force after three weeks of surveillance, following reports and complaints from concerned citizens and passersby.

Holter said they were able to seize six ice boxes containing pork, beef and goat meat preserved with ice on top of them.

The confiscated meats were reportedly owned by businessman Johnny Sarsonas.

"Di na puwede pang-konsumo ang karne kay pwerti na kabaho ug halos di na duolan sa tawo tungod sa kabaho nga mo- alisngaw," Holter said.

He said meats should be put in a chiller or refrigerator, not just in an ordinary ice case, within eight hours from the time they were taken out of the slaughterhouse. This is to keep their freshness.

"Di gud na advisable nga ibutang lang sa ice case ang karne bisan pa nga usa pa na ka block ang ice ibutang kay matonaw ra na ang ice ug mao'y hinungdan nga madaut kini," he said.

He recommended the use of a chiller or refrigerator in preserving meat because they provide a stable temperature.

During the operation, Sarsonas reportedly failed to present a copy of the meat inspection certificate, which prompted the task force to seize the items.

Because of the incident, Sarsonas may be slapped with a fine or the possibility of having his permit revoked, depending on the mayor's decision.

Meanwhile, Holter said their group will continue to apprehend violators who fail to secure meat certificate to prove that meat products they are selling to public are safe for consumption.

"Makadaut nato ang hot meat nga moresulta sa food poisoning ug diarrhea, hinungdan nga amo dayon tong gi-sud sa condemnation tank aron ma-properly dispose," he said.

Holter urged all the meat consumers to verify first from a meat store if they have a meat certificate before buying from them.

Holter said they will continue with their operations against vendors selling illegal goods despite receiving threats from violators.