PHNOM PENH: The Ministry of Environment has called for authorities to ensure that when contaminated or spoiled meat products are seized, they are disposed of in ways that will avoid any harm to public health or the environment.
In a release on Thursday (Feb 19), the ministry explained that the disposal of tainted meat in particular is a vital public health responsibility. Unsafe meat can harbour bacteria, infectious viruse, or chemical contaminants that threaten human health, livestock and the environment.
Disposal methods must ensure that these products cannot re-enter the food chain while minimising environmental impact.
The foremost priority in managing contaminated meat is safety and containment. Confiscated products must be handled by trained professionals using personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent direct exposure or cross-contamination.
The meat must be transported in sealed containers to authorised disposal sites to prevent leakage, control odours, and avoid accidental access by animals or unauthorised individuals.
The most common method is high-temperature incineration, at licensed facilities. This process effectively destroys pathogens and organic matter while utilising filtration and monitoring systems to minimise toxic potentially emissions.
This is strictly superior to open-air burning, which causes severe air pollution and releases harmful substances from incomplete combustion.
Depending on the contaminant type and local regulations, other methods — such as industrial rendering, deep burial at designated sites or composting — may be considered.
These methods must adhere to strict environmental standards to prevent soil and groundwater contamination. Authorities typically assess disease risks, waste volume and environmental impact before selecting the appropriate method.
Environmental protection is a core component of responsible waste disposal. Ash, wastewater and other residues must be managed meticulously to avoid secondary pollution. Continuous monitoring and clear communication with nearby communities help build public confidence and ensure transparency throughout the process.
The disposal of confiscated contaminated meat requires meticulous planning, stringent safety protocols and rigorous environmental oversight.
By utilising authorised facilities and regulated methods, authorities can effectively protect public health while safeguarding nature, ensuring that emergency actions do not inadvertently create new risks for society. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
