Correspondence from Ashanti Region

A stark warning has been issued regarding the potential health dangers lurking in market meat sales, with a veterinary officer urging the public to exercise caution and vigilance when purchasing meat.

Shaibu Ewura, the veterinary officer at Sabtiu Musah Abattoir in Suame, Ashanti Region, cautioned consumers to be aware of the source and preparation methods of the meat they buy from butchers.

He expressed concern that some individuals are secretly slaughtering animals in unhygienic conditions, posing a significant risk to public health.

Ewura stated he is using this opportunity to inform the public to buy meat from recognised and hygienic butcheries.

Being a veterinary officer at the facility, Ewura disclosed that he and his team always make sure that every carcass brought to the facility is well checked. According to him, consumers who bring their own carcass for slaughtering are well educated, especially when part of their meat or everything is infested with a certain disease that could cause any danger.

"Sometimes it becomes very difficult, but we educate them and subsequently, they understand our reason. Even if you brought your own animal for slaughtering, you will be well educated when the meat is not well for consumption, this is because it is their health and they become very okay," he said.

He also relayed the information that his national boss has come out to state that they will start checking the unauthorised slaughterhouses to bring them to a stop. Adding that, the new directive is a good move that would pave the way for health scrutiny and safety.

Adding to these concerns, Abdul Karim Tijani, General Manager of the Subtiu Musa Abattoir at the Suame Kotoko, highlighted the dangers of unauthorised slaughtering operations that occur without proper veterinary oversight or animal health testing.

These uninspected meats are then sold in markets, potentially spreading disease and jeopardising consumer safety.

Tijani urged veterinary authorities to increase their inspection efforts to curb these illegal practices and safeguard public health.

Emphasising the importance of health safety, Tijani disclosed that the Sabtiu Musah Abattoir (SMA) in Suame, where he serves as a manager, has implemented all necessary measures to prevent any contamination risks to the meat consumed by the public.

Urging other meat preparation centers to follow suit, he cautioned consumers to be vigilant about the meat they purchase, prioritising health safety.