The Department of Agriculture (DA) Administrative Order No. 6 Series of 2012 — on the rules and regulations on hygienic handling of chilled, frozen and thawed meat in meat markets — prohibits the display or sale of frozen products in public markets without properly- equipped refrigeration facilities.

The improper storage and thawing of frozen meat products, particularly in open public markets, presents a significant risk in the safety of meat products for sale.

The DA through the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) strives to improve the safe selling of meat, both frozen and fresh, in both public and private markets.

The DA, therefore, warns the general public not to buy frozen meat products if these are not stored in chillers or freezers.

Secretary William Dar did not say that frozen pork is better than fresh slaughtered pork.

The DA recommended the setting up of price ceilings on pork and dressed chicken upon consultations with swine industry players, consumers’ groups and local government units. ###

Reference: Administrative Order No. 6 Series of 2012