BAY, LAGUNA — The Department of Trade and Industry – Laguna Provincial Office (DTI Laguna) in partnership with CARD MRI Development Institute (CMDI) successfully conducted a food safety seminar under the Small and Medium Enterprise Roving Academy (SMERA) Program of DTI Laguna last February 21, 2023.
CMDI Deputy Director Jerwin Dayon welcomed the 43 face-to-face participants and about 30 others who joined via Zoom. He conveyed his gratitude to DTI Laguna for conducting the said event.
Following the welcome remarks, DTI Laguna Business Counsellor assigned in Negosyo Center Bay, Ms. Shairra Lynn O. Surigao, tackled the agency’s programs and services toward business development. Consumer Act of the Philippines were then explained by Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist of DTI Laguna as well, Ms. Angela Luz S. Linga.
DTI Laguna Negosyo Center Business Counselor Lovely Anne A. Rome then went on the topic of food safety wherein she emphasized safe handling and preparation of food and mandatory labelling requirements. During the said short but very informative seminar, Rome explained the farm-to-table principle for food businesses. She also discussed and provided examples on the following topics: legal basis of food safety, personnel hygiene, food hazards, food allergen and prevention of cross-contamination in food. More so, Rome stressed the importance of food safety to protect consumers and the identified some of the labelling requirements that are significant for small food processors.
The participants were also taught about mandatory labeling requirements and the influence of packaging on product quality and food safety.
The activity is part of DTI’s learning program for the development of micro, small and medium enterprises to become competitive in the domestic and international market. Other SMERA activities of DTI Laguna partner with business development services providers, local government units, training institutions, chamber, academe, financial institutions, trade and industry associations, and other government and non-government organizations. ♦
Date of Release: 3 March 2023