PANGASINAN -- The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 1 advised all consumers and vendors to be careful when buying fish and other fishery products to prevent food poisoning.
BFAR Region 1 Director Rosario Segundina Gaerlan made the advice through local food safety advisory No. 1 after a report of alleged food poisoning from the consumption of round scad, locally known as “galunggong,” in Bayambang town.
Gaerlan shared some tips in buying fishery products to make sure they are fresh, of good quality and fit for human consumption.
Buyers and vendors must take note of the following fish characteristics: fish should smell fresh and mild and not fishy, sour or ammonia-like; eyes are crystal clear, plump, and moist; gills are clean, red in color, and with no odor; fins are wet and whole; flesh is firm and intact; and no protruding internal organs or flesh wounds.
Gaerlan added that all fish must be thoroughly cleaned, properly iced, kept in the refrigerator or frozen when not immediately cooked or consumed.
BFAR Region 1 and LGUs assured continuous monitoring and control of the transport or movement of fish and fishery products for traceability and food safety purposes.