By Aerol B. Patena
MANILA, March 24 (PNA) — The University of the Philippines- Los Banos (UPLB) has developed a system that will ensure the safety of meat products in the country.
The system will utilize radio frequency identification (RFID) that will automatically identify and track tags that are attached to animals to ensure that they are free from chemicals, antibiotics and harmful microorganisms.
The RFID is a wireless use of radio frequency electromagnetic fields for transferring data through an antenna similar to a barcode identification system.
“The use of RFID technology in product traceability will greatly accelerate the efficiency of tracing back products in cases of adulteration and contamination,” according to the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
The project intends to establish a DNA-based species authentication technology for meat and meat products that can be used for certification by the National Meat Inspection Service.
The technology will verify product information based on the meat’s DNA which would ensure accurate authentication of meat products and at the same time eliminate the use of expensive equipment.
“This initiative shall provide the consumers with reliable information; promote transparency; and ensure their safety,” PCAARRD stated.
The project will be implemented by the UPLB-Animal Dairy and Sciences Cluster in coordination with the National Meat Inspection Service and the Bureau of Animal Industry through a funding from PCAARD. (PNA)