World ( The cow news digital ) As Eid-ul-Adha approaches, food safety experts have issued detailed guidelines on how to properly store sacrificial meat during extreme summer heat, heatwaves, and power outages. According to specialists, improper handling and storage can significantly increase the risk of spoilage, leading to serious health concerns.
Experts emphasize that maintaining hygiene and proper cooling conditions is the first and most important step in preserving meat. Before storing sacrificial meat, refrigerators and freezers should be thoroughly cleaned, dried, and pre-cooled. Any ice buildup or restricted airflow inside the freezer can reduce cooling efficiency, increasing the risk of bacterial growth.
Food safety authorities advise that meat should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours after slaughter. In hot weather conditions, bacteria multiply rapidly, which can lead to contamination and foodborne illnesses. Immediate processing and storage are therefore essential to maintain freshness and safety.
Specialists recommend dividing meat into appropriate portions after removing excess fat, blood, and unwanted tissue. This helps in uniform cooling and easier usage later. Before freezing, it is advised to keep the meat in a refrigerator for several hours so that its internal temperature gradually decreases. This step helps preserve texture, flavor, and nutritional value.
For packaging, airtight food-grade plastic bags or containers should be used. Experts suggest removing excess air from packaging to prevent freezer burn, which can affect both taste and quality. Labeling each packet with the date of storage is also recommended to ensure proper rotation and usage.
In cases where electricity shortages or freezer failure occur, traditional preservation methods may be used. Boiling meat for short-term storage or drying it with salt are considered effective emergency alternatives that were widely practiced in the past.
Authorities also caution against frequently opening the freezer during load shedding, as this causes temperature fluctuations that can accelerate spoilage. Keeping the freezer closed helps retain cold temperatures for longer periods.
Health experts strongly warn that any meat showing signs of bad odor or spoilage should never be consumed, as it can cause food poisoning, stomach infections, and other serious illnesses.
Proper handling, cleaning, and storage of sacrificial meat not only reduce waste but also ensure the health and safety of families during Eid celebrations. With careful precautions, meat can be safely preserved even in extreme summer conditions while maintaining its quality and freshness.
