PUBLIC ADVISORY ON SMUGGLED BROCCOLI SOLD AT LOCAL MARKETS

The public is being warned of smuggled broccoli currently sold at the local markets of La Trinidad and nearby Baguio City. According to the Cordillera Broccoli Traders and Farmers Association, the illegally imported broccoli has uniform sizes, neatly cut bottom (flower cut), and no stems— features that distinguish it from the locally grown broccoli.

The group stated that because the smuggled broccoli did not go through proper screening, it may be treated with preservatives or chemicals to prolong shelf life, posing potential health risks to consumers. The farmers and traders group maintain that Benguet grown broccoli is fresher, safer, and harvested without long storage or transport.

Also, the illegally imported broccoli and other highland vegetables continue to threaten the livelihood of not only Benguet farmers but nearby farmers from the Cordillera, which affects local economy.

The League of Associations at the La Trinidad Vegetable Trading Post stated that along with the entry of illegal broccoli, the highland vegetable industry is still suffering from the effects of smuggled carrots that flooded various public markets in the country. Thus, a stronger coordination among the agencies, LGUs, and the consumers are needed to combat this growing problem on vegetable smuggling.

The municipal government is currently working with the various farmers-traders groups, together with the Department of Agriculture Cordillera, to rally other LGUs in battling the illegal entry of these highland vegetables. Samples of the illegally imported vegetable will undergo laboratory testing to determine its contents.

The public is urged not to patronize these smuggled vegetables. Please report any observation of these illegally imported broccoli at the various public markets to this page or to the proper authorities.

Photographer & Author: 𝘖. 𝘌𝘮𝘱𝘪𝘢𝘯

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