Ground pork contaminated with African swine fever uncovered
The Department of Health disclosed that samples of ground pork seized in a raid on three illicit factories in Nakhon Pathom province have tested positive for the African Swine Fever (ASF) virus.
The unsettling announcement came hot on the heels of a meticulous investigation conducted by local police forces and health authorities in the Mueang district.
Department of Health Director-General Dr Ekachai Piansriwatchara disclosed that the crackdown followed a grievous complaint alleging the use of carcasses from pigs of mysterious demise to produce packaged ground pork. With no legitimate meat processing licenses forthcoming from the owners, swift action was taken, culminating in the closure of the nefarious facilities and the seizure of all products for thorough examination.
To stem the spread of the highly contagious ASF, the department promptly dispatched its crack team to scrutinise pig farms and meat processing units across Nakhon Pathom. Dr Ekachai emphasised stringent adherence to health regulations, mandating thorough source checks for meat and sternly prohibiting the use of carcasses from animals felled by unknown causes.
Additionally, factory operators were sternly advised on the imperative of regular facility and equipment sanitation, alongside the enforcement of proper protective gear protocols for employees. Any worker falling prey to illness was instructed to undergo immediate testing and refrain from work until fully recovered, reported The Nation.
In a warning to consumers, Dr Ekachai urged vigilance in purchasing meat solely from reputable manufacturers, advocating for meticulous label inspections for certifications and expiration dates. He underscored the importance of thorough cooking to thwart the onslaught of diseases.
In related news, charges were levelled against three additional companies by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, over allegations of pork smuggling and document falsification. The Deputy Chief of the ministry’s Nakaraja Task Force, Thanadol Suwannaritr, revealed on February 1 that his team discovered three more firms connected to the illegal activity. This brought the total number of companies under investigation by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to 11.
