KARACHI: As temperatures soar and power outages persist across the country, residents are facing serious challenges in preserving sacrificial meat during Eid al-Adha. Medical experts have issued warnings and provided practical tips to avoid health risks associated with spoiled meat.
While speaking to local media outlet Express News, Dr. Hilar Sheikh, a medical expert from Jinnah Hospital Karachi, emphasized that proper handling and storage of meat is critical during extreme weather conditions. He advised that after washing, the meat should be thoroughly dried using a clean cloth before being cut into small portions and sealed in airtight containers or freezer-safe plastic bags.
“People often store meat in regular plastic bags that are not freezer-friendly. These can allow freezer gases to penetrate, leading to contamination,” said Dr. Sheikh. He also emphasized that freezing meat for long periods and repeatedly thawing it can cause digestive and intestinal issues.
In the event of a freezer failure, Dr. Sheikh recommended using ice blocks or frozen water bottles placed inside steel or thermocol containers to maintain a cool environment for the meat. He also pointed out that temporary cold storage facilities are available in some areas and should be used when possible.
Furthermore, he reminded the public that Islamic teachings encourage timely distribution of sacrificial meat, especially to the needy, to gain spiritual reward and prevent waste. “The sooner the meat reaches deserving people, the better—for both health and religious reasons,” he said.
Health experts warn that prolonged freezing can allow bacteria and fungi to develop, potentially causing food poisoning, vomiting, diarrhea, and even hepatitis E.
Hina, a 38-year-old resident of Nazimabad, shared her experience with mishandled meat. “Last year, the butcher delayed cutting the meat, and by the time we got it, it had already started to turn black,” she said. “We often freeze meat without washing or drying it properly. Later, when we defrost and cook it, it smells and tastes off.”
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With extreme weather conditions and electricity shortages making meat storage more difficult, experts are urging families to follow safe practices and prioritize early distribution to minimize health risks.
