Prevent PMK, Don't Unite Meat and Offal in One Container!

Based on the Regulation of the Minister of Agriculture Number 114/Permentan/PD.410/9/2014 concerning the Slaughter of Sacrificial Animals, Article 34 explains that the cuts of meat are packaged in separate bags/containers from the offal packaging.

In response to this, the Head of the Food Safety Division of the Bandung City DKPP, drh. Ermariah explained that the reason for separating the meat from the offal is to avoid the spread of viruses and bacteria.

"If we examine the meat, the source of the disease is in the innards. Because the innards contain more bacteria and viruses," explained Erma to the Public Relations of Bandung City on Thursday, July 7, 2022.

In addition, parasites such as worms are also present in the offal. However, according to him, meat tends to be relatively safer from viruses, bacteria and parasites.

Erma also said that the longest time the meat is stored in a cooler at 0-4 degrees Celsius is about 24-36 hours.

"If our freezer is good below -20 degrees Celsius, meat can last up to one year. However, our refrigerators are often opened and closed, so the temperature can't be maximized. If that's the case, usually the shelf life can only be up to six months," he explained.

Meanwhile, in processing, he explained, meat and offal must be cooked for up to 30 minutes. If you want it to be burned or smoked, it must be cooked until it is cooked, not just medium rare.

"So that bacteria and viruses can die. The point is that the meat must be cooked perfectly, especially for meat that has indicated mouth and nail disease (FMD)," he added.

Although several cases of PMK have been found in the city of Bandung, he said, the lockdown for the arrival of sacrificial animals could no longer be carried out. Moreover, considering the current conditions, which will soon be Eid al-Adha, the City of Bandung still needs cattle stock.

"So, we are still allowed to enter on condition that we have an Animal Health Certificate (SKKH). Until now, the availability of sacrificial animals in Bandung is relatively safe," he said.

Erma said that many Mosque Prosperity Councils (DKM) or committees bought sacrificial animals from outside the city. On average they buy cows from Sumedang, West Bandung, Bandung Regency, Garut, and Ciamis.

Usually on D-1 Eid, these animals just arrive and go straight to their respective slaughtering locations.

"But, we have socialized to the DKM that animals must have SKKH and certainly do not get PMK. Especially if the PMK is severe, from the MUI fatwa it is no longer valid to be used as sacrificial animals," he said. (din)**

Head of Discominfo Bandung

Yayan A. Brilyana