Meat Hygiene and Associated Health Hazards Awareness among Consumers of Jammu District of Jammu and Kashmir

The present study analyses the awareness regarding meat hygiene and associated health hazards among consumers in Jammu district of Jammu and Kashmir. After preparing the comprehensive list of meat markets operating in Jammu district, three meat markets were selected, and from each selected meat market ten retail meat shops were randomly chosen. From each randomly selected retail meat shop, a list of consumers was prepared. Out of the list four consumers were selected randomly from each randomly selected retail meat shop to make a sample size of 120 consumers. Thus a total of one twenty respondents consuming meat were randomly selected for the study. Data were collected through well structured interview schedule after proper testing of schedule and using appropriate scales. The data were coded, classified, tabulated and analyzed using the software; Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS 16.0). The presentation of data was done to give pertinent, valid and reliable answer to the specific objectives. Frequencies, percentage, mean and standard deviation were worked out for meaningful interpretation. Majority of consumers were consuming meat from their childhood with unaltered consumption habit. Consumers were less concerned about cleanliness and health status of retailers. Very few respondents enquired for license of shop and meat inspection by veterinarians while, majority of respondents enquired regarding freshness and quality of meat before purchasing. Visual examination was preferred indicators by majority of respondents. Consumers were less concerned about the hygienic processing, hygienically slaughtering and dressing of healthy animals. High awareness was noticed about zoonotic diseases, mainly for bid flu, rabies and tuberculosis. Majority of consumers were aware that improper handling and consumption of raw meat could lead to diseases but very less consumers have awareness about symptoms of meat borne diseases. A significant proportion of respondents showed reduction in the consumption of chicken and eggs due to the fear of bird flu outbreak. Consumers preferred information on price, quality and freshness while purchasing meat.