March 26, 2024

 

 

The Thailand Department of Health has revealed that samples of ground pork confiscated during a raid on three illicit factories in Nakhon Pathom province have tested positive for African swine fever (ASF), Thaiger reported.

 

The alarming discovery follows an investigation conducted by local law enforcement and health authorities in the Mueang district.

 

According to Thailand's Department of Health Director-General Dr Ekachai Piansriwatchara, the crackdown ensued after a complaint alleging the utilisation of carcasses from suspiciously deceased swine to manufacture packaged ground pork.

 

With no valid meat processing licenses provided by the owners, swift measures were taken, resulting in the closure of the illicit facilities and the seizure of all products for thorough examination.

 

To contain the spread of the highly contagious ASF, health officials dispatched a specialised team to inspect swine farms and meat processing facilities throughout Nakhon Pathom.

 

Dr Ekachai stressed the importance of strict compliance with health regulations, mandating rigorous source checks for meat and firmly prohibiting the use of carcasses from animals that died under mysterious circumstances.

 

Factory operators received advice on the necessity of regular sanitation of facilities and equipment, along with enforcing proper protocols for protective gear among employees. Any workers showing signs of illness were instructed to undergo testing and refrain from work until fully recovered.

 

In a cautionary message to consumers, Dr Ekachai urged vigilance in purchasing meat exclusively from reputable manufacturers, advising thorough label inspections for certifications and expiration dates.

 

In related developments, charges have been brought against three additional companies by Thailand's Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, alleging pork smuggling and document forgery. Thanadol Suwannaritr, Deputy Chief of the ministry's Nakaraja Task Force, revealed on February 1, 2024, that his team had uncovered three more firms linked to the illicit activities, bringing the total number of companies under investigation by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to 11.

 

-      Thaiger