Gov't begins removal of corned beef from distributors

The Government on Thursday started the removal of all brands of corned beef  imported from Brazil from distribution and retail sites across the island.  
  
This followed an immediate ban on imports of the product following reports that companies in Brazil have been selling unsafe produce for years.   
  
The removal and verification exercise is being carried out by several agencies including the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ) and the Food Safety and Public Health division of the Ministry of Health.  
 
A special meeting was also conducted by the National Food Recall Committee involving critical agencies in the implementation of  the ban.

Coming out of the meeting, it was determined that the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) will stop any release of the products.    
  
The BSJ will also conduct chemical test profiles to ascertain the contents of  corned beef on the local market.  
  
Additionally, the Veterinary Services Division will conduct microbiological and residue tests to ascertain whether contaminants are present in the products.  
  
The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) says the public will be updated on the outcome of the investigations as well as further decisions taken by the Food Safety Recall Committee within the next seven to nine days.
 
Consumers are being cautioned not to consume corned beef and to retain those cans already bought until further notice.  

Compensation

Meanwhile, the Medical Association of Jamaica (MAJ) on Tuesday raised concern about how food recalls in Jamaica are handled.

Dr. Myrton Smith, MAJ President, argued that when there are recalls, there is no compensation offered to members of the public who have already purchased the items in question.

He, however, pointed out that the MAJ is pleased with the quick response the Ministry of Agriculture in notifying the public of the recall on corned beef.

Trinidad joins recall

In the meantime, Trinidad and Tobago's Agriculture Minister Clarence Rambharat on Tuesday announced immediate restrictions on meat imports from Brazil.
  
However, media reports in the twin island republic say the products remain on supermarket shelves. 
  
Mr. Rambharat said the ministers of agriculture, trade and industry as well as health have been examining the meat scandal which has unfolded in Brazil.