MEAT CONSUMPTION WARNING: The Hidden Dangers Of Eating Poorly Cooked Meat: What You Need To Know To Stay Safe

Consuming poorly cooked meat can pose significant health risks to individuals, warns Dr. Muhammad-Bashir Bolajoko, a Veterinary Epidemiologist at the National Veterinary Research Institute in Vom, Plateau State. According to Bolajoko, who is also the Head of the Veterinary Public Health & Preventive Medicine Division at the institute, tuberculosis can be transferred from animals to humans through meat if it is contaminated and not properly cooked.

The veterinary doctor emphasized that some parasitic and bacterial diseases can also be transmitted from animals to humans if the meat is not properly inspected. Bolajoko noted that meat and animal products processed in abattoirs with poor hygiene practices and unrestricted access to human movement are usually contaminated. He advised people to only eat meat that has been certified fit for consumption and prepared in a hygienic condition.

"Bacterial diseases like tuberculosis can be transferred from animals to humans if such animals escape the meat inspector or the meat inspector did not do a proper check and such meat gets to the public," Bolajoko explained. "People can acquire tuberculosis by consuming such meat if it is not properly prepared or cooked."

Bolajoko also warned that human traffic could contaminate meat and make it unsafe for consumption during processing at the abattoir. "In a situation where you have traffic of humans moving in and out of the abattoir, those that have a common cold and COVID-19 can contaminate meat that is exposed," he said.

According to the World Health Organisation, tuberculosis is one of the top 10 causes of death and the leading cause from a single infectious agent, above HIV/AIDS. In Nigeria, the disease is a significant public health concern, with the country ranking sixth among 30 tuberculosis high-burden countries in the world.

Recent estimates by the WHO showed that tuberculosis killed 156,000 Nigerians and afflicted 452,000 in 2020. The global health body has expressed concern that inadequate investment and funding for TB control in Africa are jeopardizing efforts to meet the global target of ending the disease by 2030.

Experts stress the need for improved meat hygiene through better abattoir services and inducing behavioral change around meat sourcing. They also emphasize the importance of creating risk awareness about zoonotic disease transmission to consumers. By taking these steps, the spread of zoonotic diseases, including tuberculosis, can be prevented and controlled.

In light of these findings, it is essential for individuals to prioritize proper meat handling and cooking practices to minimize the risk of contracting tuberculosis and other zoonotic diseases. By doing so, we can reduce the burden of these diseases and promote a healthier community.

The Institute of Human Virology Nigeria has also highlighted the need for increased awareness and action to combat tuberculosis in the country. As the world works towards ending the disease by 2030, it is crucial that Nigeria and other high-burden countries receive adequate support and funding to control and eventually eliminate tuberculosis.

In conclusion, the dangers of consuming poorly cooked meat cannot be overstated. It is crucial that individuals take steps to ensure that their meat is properly cooked and handled to prevent the transmission of zoonotic diseases. By working together, we can promote a healthier and safer food supply for everyone.