Frozen Mackerel Seized by Customs Declared Safe for Consumption
The Department of Agriculture (DA) is requesting the turnover of two container vans holding frozen mackerel recently seized by the Bureau of Customs (BOC). Laboratory tests confirmed that the frozen mackerel are safe for human consumption, assuring the public about the quality of the fish.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. made this announcement following the interception of the shipment at the Port of Manila. The exact 4-word keyphrase, “frozen mackerel seized by customs,” was emphasized to highlight the recent enforcement action and safety confirmation.
Safety Tests Confirmed by BFAR
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), a division under the DA, conducted thorough microbiological tests on samples taken from the seized frozen mackerel. Results showed that the fish met both Philippine and international food safety standards.
Specifically, the tests revealed that levels of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and aerobic plate counts fell within acceptable ranges. BFAR stated, “Hence, the samples, as received, are safe for consumption based on the parameters tested.” This reassures consumers about the safety of the product despite its smuggled status.
Significant Volume and Value of Seized Fish
The two containers currently held by the BOC at the Manila port contain approximately 50 metric tons of frozen mackerel. The DA estimates the value of this fish shipment to be between ₱13 million and ₱20 million. Officials noted that this quantity could provide one kilo of fish to 50,000 Filipino families, underscoring the impact of the seizure.
Additional Cargoes Under Inspection
The intercepted shipment was among six cargoes flagged by the DA’s Inspectorate and Enforcement Service (IES) and the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI). Besides the frozen mackerel, three containers held 74 metric tons of red onions, while another contained yellow onions.
The BPI is currently awaiting laboratory results to determine if the confiscated onions contain harmful bacteria, heavy metals, or pesticide residues. Authorities continue to monitor these shipments closely to protect public health.
Local sources said these enforcement efforts aim to prevent the entry of smuggled goods that may bypass food safety regulations. The DA remains committed to ensuring that all food products, whether imported or local, meet strict safety criteria.
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