Biosecurity is calling on the public to report any sale of bush-killed meat during the Christmas and New Year festive period.

The Acting Director of Biosecurity, Lilly Fatdal Antfalo, told VBTC News that this practice is not allowed under the Meat Industry Act.

VBTC News understands that meat slaughtered at approved abattoirs is permitted, but bush-killed meat that is not properly handled carries a high risk of disease.

“When we encourage businesses to operate within our provinces and municipal areas, the Meat Industry Act clearly outlines where and how meat should be slaughtered, transported and packaged in a safe manner,” Mrs Antfalo said.

“Our aim is for families to consume safe meat during the festive season. This is what we want to encourage, especially as we are seeing an increase in this activity on Efate and other islands, and particularly in Sanma where there is a large amount of bush-killed meat being sold in town and traded to other islands.”

Mrs Antfalo added that meat inspections in Santo are currently ongoing.

She said Biosecurity is working to ensure people have access to safe meat.

“Many times, our officers are stationed at domestic ports to inspect meat before it is shipped to the provinces,” she said.

Mrs Antfalo also reminded the public that fines apply and urged anyone who sees the sale of bush-killed meat in municipal areas to report it.

Biosecurity is urging the public to prioritize health and consume safe meat during the festive season.