Stay healthy during Eid Al Adha fest

Observer

2 days ago

As Eid Al Adha approaches, livestock markets across various governorates of the Sultanate of Oman are witnessing vibrant activity, as citizens and residents alike are keen to buy sacrificial animals, in keeping with religious rituals.
However, this annual event is not limited to just buying the sacrificial animals. It represents an integrated system that begins with the step of selecting a healthy animals and extends to the stage of preserving the meat and ensuring its safety and quality.
This was emphasised by experts at the Food Safety and Quality Center under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, as part of their efforts to protect consumer health and promote safe practices during such occasions.
The journey of the sacrificial animal begins with selecting the right animal, a crucial step to ensure the meat's quality and safety. Experts indicate that a healthy animal is one that appears lively and energetic, with bright, clear eyes free from any discharge or signs of disease. The body should be free of wounds, sores, or swelling, and it should have a balanced proportion of meat to fat, indicating good nutrition. Consumers are advised to avoid animals showing signs of lethargy or sluggishness, as they might carry infectious or parasitic diseases.
Purchasing from certified markets, slaughterhouses, or approved farms is of utmost importance, as animals sold in these places undergo thorough veterinary inspections by the relevant authorities to ensure they are free from diseases that could be transmitted to humans. These procedures ensure that the animal is safe for human consumption, thereby enhancing consumer confidence and protecting public health.
After selecting the animal comes the second stage: slaughter. Experts emphasise that slaughtering at approved slaughterhouses is not merely a religious observance, but an important step in ensuring meat safety and consumer health. Before slaughter, the animal undergoes a comprehensive veterinary check to confirm it is free from infectious diseases and parasites, reducing the risk of disease transmission to humans. Slaughter is carried out in a clean environment using sterilised tools and in accordance with the highest international health standards, ensuring the meat is free from bacterial or microbial contamination. Animal waste is also disposed of in safe and sanitary ways that protect the environment and ensure public safety.
If a consumer chooses to slaughter the animal at home or anywhere outside approved slaughterhouses, they must adhere to proper health procedures in handling the waste. The remains should be placed in a tightly sealed bag before disposal, to prevent unpleasant odours or attract insects and stray animals, as well as to protect the environment from pollution. This step contributes to public health, keeps the place clean, and prevents the spread of diseases or contamination to others.
The sacrificial process is only complete with the third stage: meat preservation after slaughter. Here, the responsibility shifts to the consumer to maintain the quality and safety of the meat. Experts recommend cooling the meat immediately in a cold environment to minimise bacterial growth. It is also advisable to portion the meat appropriately according to intended use, whether for immediate cooking or storage. If the meat is to be consumed within a few days, it should be kept refrigerated at a low temperature. For longer-term storage, freezing is the best option, provided the meat is frozen immediately after cutting and in the proper manner while avoiding refreezing after thawing to maintain its quality and safety.
Experts at the National Center for Food Safety and Quality stress that following these procedures step by step reflects consumer awareness and their commitment to the health and safety of their family. It also ensures that Eid Al Adha is celebrated in a safe and healthy atmosphere, free from health risks that may arise from neglecting these important details.
With continued government efforts to monitor markets and slaughterhouses and ensure their adherence to health regulations, consumer awareness remains the most critical factor in successfully completing this system, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this great religious occasion without any health issues.
BLURB
Purchasing from certified markets, slaughterhouses, or approved farms is of utmost importance, as animals sold in these places undergo thorough veterinary inspections by the relevant authorities to ensure they are free from diseases that could be transmitted to humans. These procedures ensure that the animal is safe for human consumption, thereby enhancing consumer confidence and protecting public health