Government steps up meat inspections

posted on: Mar 1 2010 9:37 by Royston. Viewed 283 times.


The ministries of Health and Agriculture reported Sunday that they will begin to intensify inspections of slaughterhouses, markets and other companies processing meat and dairy products nationwide.

A statement from the two institutions said that they are working together to ensure the quality of food produced by the industry.

The Heath Secretary, Bautista Rojas G�mez, announced that inspectors from Livestock and Environmental Health will monitor for the remainder of this year, about 325 slaughterhouses, 158 markets and 75 dairy processing companies.

He explained that this work is part of an existing agreement that was started several years ago between the two agencies in an attempt to prevent risks associated with the production, preparation and consumption of products such as meat, cheese and milk.

He indicated that from this week, more than 30 professionals including veterinarians and technicians from both institutions will conduct technical analysis on milk, meat and dairy products.

He stressed that the ministries of Public Health and Agriculture want to ensure food security and prevent the spread of diseases such as tuberculosis, brucellosis and leptospirosis through consumption of infected animal products.

He clarified that while the inspection work has always been carried out routinely, under a joint agreement they have decided to increase their activity nationally.

He warned that establishments failing to conform to established standards would be closed.

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