BANGKOK, 15 January 2015 The Department of Disease Control has assured that people can still eat Kao Man Kai, following reports of bacteria found in chicken blood.
According to the Department, the bacteria, known to scientists as Vibrio Parahaemolyticus, can be killed at high temperatures.
The bacteria were found last week in chicken blood used in making blood jelly. The jelly is often served with rice and boiled chicken meat. Known as ‘Kao Man Kai’ the dish is one of the most popular dishes in Thailand.
The Department has reiterated that it is perfectly safe to eat the dish as long as the chicken is well cooked. The bacteria are only found in the bird’s blood. However, consumers are advised not to eat the blood jelly that has not been cooked properly.
The blood should be cooked at 75 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes. Butchers must also follow the hygiene standards of practice when butchering chickens. The meat should be prepared on a clean surface where there is no blood.
The bacteria are usually found in half-cooked seafood. It is the first time in the world that they have been discovered in chicken.
