Relevant Standards and Hygiene Requirements
- The Bureau of Product Standards issued PNS 891, the Standard Specification for Shelf-Stable, Chilled, and Frozen Corned Beef.
- PNS 891 sets hygiene and composition requirements for corned beef products.
- It mandates the declaration of the specific type of meat used (cattle beef or carabeef) in the ingredient list on the product label.
Mandatory Labeling Requirements
- Corned beef products must declare the type of meat used (cattle beef or carabeef) on their labels, specifically within the list of ingredients.
Compliance Deadlines and Procedures
- Meat processors must submit new product labels indicating the type of meat used within one month from receipt of the circular.
- Existing stocks with old labels may be sold and consumed within six months from the circular's effectivity.
- Meat processors are required to notify BFAD in writing of their compliance with the labeling directive.
Future Recommendations and Review
- Label declaration for specific types of meat in other processed meat products is recommended for further review.
- Such review is to be coordinated with concerned sectors and endorsed to the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Product Standards under the Department of Agriculture.
Legal Effect and Authority
- The circular took effect on April 22, 1999.
- Signed and issued by Dr. William D. Torres, Director of BFAD, to ensure consumer protection and proper labeling practices in the meat processing industry.