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October 24, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) conducted a seminar-training on advanced molecular techniques for detecting adulteration in halal meat and meat products on October 20–22, 2026, at the USM Agricultural Research and Development Center in Kabacan, Cotabato.
The three-day training was conducted under the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-funded project, “Molecular Diagnostics for Detection of Halal and Non-Halal Animal Species Using Advanced Molecular Technologies.” It aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to detect non-halal animal species in meat products using advanced molecular technologies.
USM Professor Emeritus Edward Barlaan, project leader, developed DNA probe kits for halal meat authentication that can detect and identify pork in raw and processed meat products through digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and quantitative real-time PCR. The project also developed kits for detecting other animal species, providing a way to verify whether meat products contain the species declared on their labels.
The technology can help consumers and stakeholders in the halal industry verify the authenticity of meat products and detect possible adulteration involving pork or other undeclared animal species.
Participants included representatives from government and academic institutions, including the Department of Science and Technology Regions XI and XII, Ministry of Science and Technology-BARMM, Davao del Sur State College, Cotabato Foundation College of Science and Technology, South Cotabato State College, Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology, USM, and the University of Southeastern Philippines.
