DoST trains Camiguin cooperative workers on food safety and processing

STRESSING the importance of maintaining quality standards in food production, the Department of Science and Technology (DoST) recently trained turmeric producers of the Owakan Multipurpose Cooperative on food safety and good manufacturing practices.

Requested and organized by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Camiguin, the training was intended to enhance the skills of the Owakan workers in preparation for the cooperative’s application for license to operate from the Food and Drug Administration.

Troy Anthony Omol, science research specialist of DoST-Camiguin, who served as the resource speaker, discussed topics on basic food hygiene, food hazards, and current good manufacturing practices (CGMP).

Omol highlighted the significance of implementing proper food processing standards, saying “food safety is everybody’s responsibility.”

The training was participated in by 13 turmeric processors from various parts of the island.

Eliaquem Arnulfo Jamero, chairman of Owakan Multipurpose Cooperative, expressed gratitude for the training initiative and reiterated the cooperative’s commitment to maintaining hygienic workspaces.

“I am very much grateful to the facilitators of this training, which enlightened our group, and this will be applied to our safety protocols in our turmeric production,” the cooperative head said.

Sharon Mawile, Agrarian Reform Program officer of DAR-Camiguin, commended the training which included sessions on product development discussed by the Department of Trade and Industry on Day One, followed by food safety and CGMP training by DoST on Day Two.

The training session guided the cooperative towards safer and more efficient turmeric production, ensuring both personnel and product safety.

DoST-Camiguin continues to offer free food safety and CGMP training for businesses in the food industry.