DTI-Laguna conducts seminar on “Proper Food Handling and Food Safety Awareness” in Pagsanjan

Pagsanjan, Laguna – To ensure quality and safety of food products, the Department of Trade and Industry – Laguna Provincial Office, through Negosyo Center (NC) Pagsanjan, facilitated a seminar on “Proper Food Handling and Food Safety Awareness” under SME Roving Academy program with 27 food manufacturing and processing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) last December 8, 2021 at Liwasang Don Manuel Soriano Basement 2, Pagsanjan, Laguna.

Senior Business Counselor Ms. Anne Camille S. Alducente hosted the program. DTI-Laguna Provincial Director Clarke S. Nebrao emphasized the importance of the said activity in preparation for application for license-to-operate permit from Food and Drugs Administration (FDA). He also emphasized that quality must not compromise the safety of any food product from preparation, packaging, and handling.

On the other hand, Senior Business Counselor Ms. Jean Kristine L. Torres, also the resource person, started the discussion by introducing various food safety hazards that maybe encounter in food preparation. She also cited illnesses, causing agents such as bacteria and other microorganisms, common symptoms, and preventive measures for different food preparation practices.

In addition, NCBC Torres also discussed the how does cross contamination happen and preventive measures. Lastly, she discussed the importance of personnel hygiene in food safety.

The food manufacturing/processing industry is one of DTI Laguna's key industries. DTI Laguna works hard to assist these MSMEs in getting their products ready for market. MSMEs must ensure that their products are safe and of high quality in order to be market-ready. According to DOST, "safety is an essential prerequisite of food quality." Thus, “food contamination and poisoning may occur at any point along the supply chain, from farm to fork. Rapid urbanization and the globalization of food manufacture and commerce enhance the possibility of contaminated and tainted food occurrences. Every year, hundreds of people in our community become ill, and many die as a result of eating contaminated food."

The event was also graced by Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist Ms. Angela Luz P. Salvador and Business Development Division Chief Marcelina B. Alcantara. This activity was in conjunction with Kalakal Laguna Trade Fair, showcasing local products all over the province that will run from December 8 to 12, 2021.