A total of 20 participants from various food establishments in Western Visayas attended the “Mastering Food Safety and Halal Standards: Ensuring Quality and Compliance in Every Bite” training conducted by the Department of Science and Technology VI (DOST VI) on March 25, 2025. This training aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of food industry professionals on food safety and Halal standards.

Food safety is crucial to public health, and this training underscored the importance of maintaining hygienic practices in food production and preparation covering topics on safe handling, storage, and processing of food products in preventing contamination and ensuring that they meet local and international food safety standards.

Experts from the DOST VI, Mr. Charles Feb Q. Palla, Provincial Science and Technology Office – Antique (PSTO Antique) Science Research Specialist II, and Ms. Norjanah C. Barosa, Project Technical Assistant II under DOST VI Science and Technology Services Section (STSS), shared valuable insights and practical tips for food businesses to ensure food safety, improve processes, gain an advantage, and market their products effectively in the competitive global food industry.

The halal standards component of the training, that focused on the concepts and principles of halal and the processes required to prepare halal food was equally vital. With the increasing demand for halal food locally and globally, the training emphasized the significance of adhering to Islamic dietary laws and maintaining transparency in sourcing and production.

As the demand for food safety and halal products continues to grow, training programs like this are essential in ensuring that the food industry remains resilient, competitive, and compliant with global standards. This training is a crucial step toward achieving higher food quality standards and ensuring that food products meet the diverse needs of consumers. This initiative not only enhances the food industry’s capabilities but also supports health and cultural values of consumers worldwide.

DOST VI’s commitment to providing these training opportunities is a testament to its dedication to the continuous improvement of the food sector and the overall well-being of consumers. (NCBarosa/STSS)