BUTUAN CITY – As part of the capacity enhancement programs for the youth, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center 13 conducted the Seminar on Food Processing and Food Safety on July 12-13, 2021 at Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center.

The 15 participants comprised 13 grantees of the Educational Assistance for the Youth in Agriculture (EAsY Agri) scholarship intervention and 2 Agri interns for the Filipino Young Farmers Internship Program in Taiwan.

Development Officer II/Project Officer Paula Mae A, Creencia mentioned that the activity aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of the youth in food processing and food safety awareness through technology promotion.

Senior Science Research Specialist Jennifer J. Dejarme of the Department of Science and Technology – Caraga who served as the Resource Person underscored the importance of applying good manufacturing practices not only in food businesses but also in food handlers or preparers at home levels. Dejarme emphasized that it is the responsibility of food handlers to ensure that the food prepared is safe for human consumption and free from hazards.

The participants also learned about proper handwashing, personal hygiene, and food safety hazards.

Meanwhile, Food Processor Emee D. Lopez shared the techniques of processing meat products that make food more palatable and safer and preserve it to extend its shelf life. She also guaranteed that processing is a promising business should they opt to venture.

As part of the requirement, the participants learned and demonstrated the procedures of meat products such as longganisa, siomai, and embutido.