Don’t Get Your Meat Cuts Spoiled by Freelance Butchers, Here’s How to Choose Wisely

As Eid ul-Adha 2025 approaches, families across Pakistan are preparing to sacrifice animals. But with the rise in freelance butchers offering cheap services, there is growing concern about meat hygiene, unsafe cutting practices, and potential health risks.

Every year, people spend thousands of rupees on animals for sacrifice. However, hiring an untrained butcher can ruin the meat and spoil the spirit of Eid.

Why It’s a Serious Problem

Local authorities and health experts warn that many butchers who appear during Eid season have no proper training. They often use unclean tools, work in unsanitary conditions, and go house to house without washing their hands or knives.

Common Problems with Untrained Butchers

• Uneven or wasted meat cuts

• Dirty knives and boards that spread bacteria

• No gloves or clean water used

• Rushing through jobs without care

Tips to Choose the Right Butcher

1. Ask for Recommendations – Choose someone trusted by friends or neighbors.

2. Check Tools and Appearance – A clean apron and sharp, sanitized tools are good signs.

3. Verify Experience – Ask how many years they’ve been doing Qurbani.

4. Observe Their Schedule – Avoid butchers taking too many bookings in one day.

5. Supervise the Work – Stay nearby to make sure things are done cleanly and properly.

Why Proper Cutting Matters

Bad cutting not only wastes meat, but can also cause bones to splinter and affect the texture. If the meat is not handled hygienically, it may spoil quickly or develop a bad smell. Families are left with less usable meat, which can’t be distributed or stored.

Role of Local Authorities

In cities like Karachi and Lahore, local governments have launched awareness campaigns. In some areas, people are being encouraged to use licensed butchers or designated sacrifice spots to avoid unsafe practices.

The Spirit of Eid

Eid ul-Adha is not just about sacrifice. It is also about cleanliness, sharing, and devotion. Spoiled meat wastes money and destroys the joy of giving. Spending a little more for a skilled, hygienic butcher can protect your health and make Eid stress-free.