Imported beef is rampant again to be traded in North Jakarta traditional markets. As supposed to be, the beef is only allowed to be sold to hotels and restaurants (horeka). This condition is threatening local beef price in the market.

There are many butchers in traditional markets selling imported beef. We give direct warning to them

North Jakarta Husbandry, Fishery and Maritime Affairs Sub-Department (P2K) claimed had monitored a number of traditional markets regularly. They reported that a number of butchers are still selling imported beef. According to them, the imported beef is more salable for its low price.

Head Section of North Jakarta P2K for Supervision and Control, Muhammad Mikron, said that few days ago, his party still found hundreds kilogram of imported beef sold by butchers in Kalibaru, Sunter Agung, and Pademangan Market.

“There are many butchers in traditional markets selling imported beef. We give direct warning to them. If they still sell it, we will summon them and coordinate with P2K Department,” said Muhammad Mikron, Tuesday (5/13).

According to Mikron, if they are still stubborn selling imported meat, his party will not hesitate to take foreclosure. “There should be an affirmative action to protect local cattlemen,” he emphasized.

Besides that, Mikron urged the buyers to can differentiate imported beef with local beef. The difference can be seen through the meat condition and its treatment. The local beef will have red color and always hang, while the imported beef will be sold in frozen condition.

Otong (50), a butcher selling imported beef at Rawa Badak Market, admitted selling imported beef for its lower price. “The imported beef price is cheaper, the difference could reach almost Rp 20 thousand,” he admitted.

However, some buyers are still choosing the local beef due to its freshness despite its price. “Most buyers already know the quality of imported beef is not as fresh as local beef,” Otong added.

A number of buyers admitted that they are afraid the imported beef is not fresh anymore. “I’m just worried, because it could be restored too long in fridge. Especially if it is sold in traditional market like this, which do not use fridge,” said Neneng, a buyer.

Neneng explained that if it is too long restored in the open space, the imported beef can be stale. If the ice has melted, it cannot be put again into refrigerator, it only left to two choices; either to be cook directly or thrown to a trash can.