Bahrain government vigilant on rampant unsafe meat sale

Authorities in Bahrain are vowing a Ramadan war on meat traders supplying unsafe cuts during the holy month.

 

A series of surprise inspections in Manama--the country's capital--is planned after it was claimed a meat shortage meant some traders were cashing in by offloading rotten cuts.

 

The allegations were made by Muharraq municipal councilor Ali Al Muqla, who is facing prosecution for accusing health inspectors of not doing their job properly.

 

The Health Ministry previously rebuked his claims, but he appeared at the Manama Municipal Council stating that the massive demand for meat was allegedly being exploited all over Bahrain.

 

He said while the Bahrain Livestock Company says adequate meat supplies have been provided to merchants in the market, everyone knows that there is a huge shortage.

 

Al Muqla said that a merchant who doesn't want to lose a customer would want to sell rotten meat "than having the hassle of returning it."

 

Al Muqla last month appeared before the Public Prosecution for accusing the ministry of allowing damaged carcasses to be sold, without providing any proof to support the allegation.

 

Months ago the number of damaged carcasses was minimal, but now more are sold to meet the huge demand, he said.

 

Manama councilor Sadiq Rahma said other councilors would conduct spot checks, since their duties included monitoring government bodies.

 

He said before the allegations, news of rancid meat circulating in the market are already existing but concerned officials have done nothing.

 

Rahma said consumers should celebrate Ramadan in a "healthy manner".