San Juan, Siquijor – On July 31, 2024, ten (10) members of the Maite Resources Development Association (MRDA) completed a two-day training on Food Safety Management. The program aimed to strengthen food safety practices within MRDA’s baking operations while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards for fish and seaweed processing.

The training covered key topics, including food safety practices for seaweed extract and processed fish products, personal hygiene for food handlers, labeling requirements for processed products, spoilage indicators, and foodborne illnesses. Additionally, an interactive workshop facilitated discussions on best practices, providing insights for improving MRDA’s baking operations.

The successful implementation of the training program was made possible through the collective efforts of the FISH Visayas Project Partners, including the Siquijor Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Siquijor Provincial S&T Office, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Siquijor Provincial Office, and the local government unit of San Juan. The proactive participation of MRDA further contributed to the program’s success.

Looking ahead, MRDA will focus on product development and laboratory testing of its Seaweed Toasted Bread. Finalizing the product’s taste, ingredients, labeling, and packaging are essential steps toward meeting laboratory testing requirements, which are necessary for product registration and securing contracts with potential buyers.
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The Training on the Food Safety Management System for MRDA aspires to achieve Result Area 1: Training for Fishermen and MSMEs and Result Area 3: Market Access of the FISH Visayas Project.