By Kenneth Marcos 
As more Filipinos turn to online shopping for convenience, authorities are raising a red flag—be careful when buying meat online.
The National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) has issued a strong reminder to consumers across the country to only buy meat from trusted and accredited sources, especially as the sale of imported meat through online platforms continues to rise.
Many online sellers offer meat products that seem affordable and easy to access, but behind low prices may be hidden dangers—contaminated, spoiled, or mishandled meat that could harm your family’s health.
What to Look For Before Buying
The NMIS emphasized that all meat and meat products, whether local or imported, must meet strict safety standards. Shoppers are urged to check the following before making any purchase:
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The seller must source their meat from accredited meat establishments that follow proper food safety and inspection procedures.
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Each product must be properly labeled and documented, including a Meat Inspection Certificate (MIC) or Certificate of Meat Inspection (COMI), and other importation clearances.
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Products must be stored and delivered under cold chain conditions (proper refrigeration) to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth.
If a seller cannot show any of these, or if the meat arrives without labels, documents, or appears poorly handled, the NMIS advises the public not to consume or repurchase the product.
Health at Risk
Spoiled or contaminated meat may carry harmful bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, or Listeria, which can cause serious illnesses such as food poisoning, diarrhea, vomiting, or even hospitalization, especially for children, senior citizens, and people with weak immune systems.
Because many online platforms allow individuals to sell directly to consumers without inspections, the NMIS says the risk of unsafe meat entering households has grown—particularly in areas with limited access to local markets.
“We understand that online shopping is now part of daily life for many Filipinos. But when it comes to food, especially meat, it’s important to put safety first,” the NMIS said.
How to Stay Safe
To ensure safe meat for your household, the NMIS recommends:
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Buy only from trusted meat shops or groceries, whether in person or through official online platforms.
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Check for inspection certificates and proper packaging when meat is delivered.
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Avoid buying meat from unknown sellers on social media, messaging apps, or unregistered online stores.
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Report suspicious meat sellers or products to the NMIS through their official contact channels.
The NMIS has made its services accessible for public concerns. Consumers may reach out via email at nmis@nmis.gov.ph, phone at (02) 8924 7980, or by visiting Regional Technical Operation Centers nationwide.
Protecting Your Family Starts with Awareness
As the holiday season approaches and food demand rises, the NMIS reminds every Filipino that safe meat means healthy families. A few extra steps to check a product’s source and condition can prevent serious health risks.
“Sa kaligtasan ng inyong pamilya, siguraduhing ang binibiling karne ay mula sa maaasahang pinanggalingan. Kalusugan ang nakataya,” the NMIS concluded.
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