Agri Mis. Or, Workforce Enhance Skills in Meat Handling and Processing

Fri, 03/17/2023 - 15:35

Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from different municipalities of Region X enhance their skills in meat handling and processing with training under the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center X, here in El Salvador City.

 

As part of the five-day program, the participants visit a processing plant, the GAMA Foods Corporation in Baloy, Cagayan de Oro City. They were able to observe the actual dressing and cutting of chicken for packaging and delivery at the local market.

 

Among the important aspects of meat processing are food safety in handling and processing as well as identifying the properties of quality meat. These were thoroughly explained by Ms. Hazel F. Salaum, Food Technologist and Consultant in Research and Development for the Local Government of Cagayan de Oro City. In addition, Dr. Helen Para, DVM, Meat Inspector III of the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) Region X talked about meat handling and meat science. These were given emphasis, especially with the onset of African Swine Fever where swine farmers suffered setbacks, coupled with the increase in prices for livestock feeds.

 

The participants also learn and practice through hands-on activities, how to identify quality meat and meat products, basic meat processing and preservation techniques following the standards required for hygienic food, performing simple cost and return analyses, and learning the appropriate product packaging and labeling for processed meat products.

 

The last day of the training is a showcase of the products processed by the participants themselves. Ham, bacon, embotido, tocino, longganisa, and burger patty were displayed in different presentation styles. display of different presentation styles.

In his message to end the training program, Mr. Efren C. Macario, Administrative Officer IV of ATI-RTC X challenged the participants to master the technologies, venture into business, and pass on the technologies to others in the community. The training ran from March 13-17, 2023, and led by Ms. Anthonette June D. Russel and assisted by Technical Support Staff, Daisy Joy R. Sales. (WITH REPORTS FROM ANTHONETTE JUNE RUSSEL)

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