During the festive season in the Cayman Islands, local residents enjoy many traditional Christmas dishes using fresh local meat. As a result of this increase in demand, there is an increase in the number of animals slaughtered by local butchers. Officials from the Department of Environmental Health (DEH) are reminding farmers that there is a set procedure in place to ensure delivery of safe meats to consumers.

The process involves inspections being conducted by the Department of Agriculture (DOA) and the Department of Environmental Health (DEH) as both departments work together to ensure safety standards are met. Ante-mortem inspections which are the examinations of all animals prior to slaughter must be carried out and are done by the DOA. Post-mortem (after slaughter) inspections which determine whether the carcasses are deemed safe for human consumption are done by DEH.

“The public is reminded that for their own health and safety, they should be vigilant and desist from purchasing and or consuming meat from animals that haven’t been inspected and passed as fit for food by the DEH,” states Food Safety Officer Gideon Simms.  He added, “In cases where local meat is being offered for sale without DEH certification, DEH should be notified immediately as this is against the law.”

Only local meat that bears the DEH ‘inspection passed’ stamp is deemed fit for food and it is an offence under the Public Health Law (2002 Revision) for butchers to sell local meat, whether whole or in part, without being inspected and approved by the DEH.

Due to the large number of requests, butchers are reminded that they should call early to schedule inspections. Both departments must be contacted at least 48 hours ahead of the proposed slaughter time.

For ante-mortem inspections, contact DOA at 947-3090, and for post-mortem inspections, contact DEH at 949-6696. For other information, and to make arrangement for inspections, persons can reach DEH Food Safety Officer Mr. Simms at 925-4582.

Photo Caption:

Copy of DEH post-mortem meat inspection stamp.