Imported Meat Threatens Farmers

By: Ulul Maskuriah

Banjarmasin, 14/6 (Antaranews, South Kalimantan) - The entry of imported meat and offal  into South Kalimantan has started troubling cattle and buffalo breeders because it can damage the meat market in the area.

Head of Hulu Sungai Utara (HSU) Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Agency Akhmad Rijani in Banjarmasin, on Friday said the entry of imported meat and offal may not safe, healthy, whole and halal, became one of South Kalimantan threat to it farmers.

Also with the inclusion of buffaloes from outside that does not comply with the principles of quarantine in the prevention of infectious diseases, are also a threat that should get the attention of the entire party.

In addition, conversion of grazing buffalo, decreased body weight and seed quality buffalo are kept, and the great slaughter in the high HSU also quite alarming for the sustainability of swamp buffalo population of South Kalimantan.

"The potential development of swamp buffalo and ducks at HSU is extraordinary, and it needs to get the support of all parties," he said.

According to Rijani, HSU swamp buffalo development potential is huge, because the meat needs on a daily basis has increased quite high. It can be proved, with the high demand for meat, both on weekdays and on the big day.

Currently the number of buffalo in HSU and is 8404 tails and by 2016 expected to reach 11,213 tails. Meet these targets, HSU perform steps such as controlling the buffalo mortality, improve supervision and control of productive female cutting, prevention of zoonotic diseases, prevents inbreeding, and some other efforts.