Sacrificial animals are seen at Al Wakra Central Market. Different types of local and imported goats and sheep are being offered at the market for sacrifice during Eid Al Adha. PIC: RAJAN VADAKKEMURIYIL
Doha, Qatar: As Eid Al Adha celebrations get under way today, people have been urged to prioritise their health and safety during the festive season.
The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has issued guidelines for the safe handling of Adahi meat (meat from sacrificial animals) and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has listed healthy practices for the public to follow during the holidays.
MoPH has urged the public to avoid slaughtering outside the abattoir to maintain good hygiene and health as well as to ensure the handling and transportation of Adahi meat within the shortest possible period.
“The slaughterhouse is the right place to slaughter animals away from external contaminants; a slaughterhouse is a place where animals are checked by a veterinarian before and after slaughter to ensure that they are free of infectious diseases,” the Ministry said in a social media post.
Also, according to the Ministry, all workers in slaughterhouses hold health certificates proving that they are free from infectious diseases; slaughterhouse workers have sufficient experience to ensure proper slaughter and bleeding of the animal.
“Avoid dealing with unlicensed butchers because they do not have health certificates proving that they are free of diseases, and the absence of veterinary check for meat,” the Ministry cautioned.
The Ministry has also recommended transportation of Adahi meat in a car equipped with an ice box cooler; cutting the meat into small pieces before refrigerating; and using two separate cutting boards to avoid cross-contamination; one for raw meats and the other for fruits and vegetables. Also, it is advised to thaw frozen meat in the refrigerator and not re-freeze.
Separately, the Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has shared a list of nutrition tips for healthy eating during Eid Al Adha holidays.
“It is recommended to drink plenty of water due to the high temperature. It is also advised to stay away from soft drinks and energy drinks, sweetened beverages and reduce intake of tea and coffee. It is also recommended to eat more fresh vegetables and fruits. Reduce intake of sweets and sugar, especially for children,” said Senior Clinical Dietitian at HMC, Lena Nassar in a video message.
She also recommended having breakfast early every day; preparing meals in healthy methods and making healthier choices when preparing meals; avoiding taking fatty, fast food, and avoiding overeating and excessive consumption of meat.
Nassar suggests people exercise regularly and engage in physical activity such as walking during the Eid holidays.
