Ministry of Health Warns Public Not to Consume Meat from Burned Delivery Truck

The Ministry of Health and Wellness is warning Belizeans not to buy or consume meat from the delivery truck that caught fire in Sandhill on October ninth. The warning follows reports received through the ministry’s hotline that meat involved in that incident is being sold to the public. In a release issued today, the ministry says the meat is contaminated after being exposed to unsafe temperatures, smoke and chemicals inside the burning vehicle. It is advising the public not to purchase, sell, distribute, prepare or consume it.  The ministry warns that eating the meat could cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. It also cautions about possible chemical poisoning, organ damage and longer-term health risks.  Health officials stress that the meat may look normal and have no unusual smell despite being contaminated. Washing, seasoning or cooking it will not remove harmful chemical contaminants or make it safe to eat.  Anyone with questions or concerns can contact Principal Public Health Inspector John Bodden at 880-2363 or call the ministry’s hotline at 0-800-664-2273.