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Meat processing on Tinian
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Posted on Jan 17 2001
An experiment in ham and bacon processing could have potential for the establishment of small enterprise, according to Tinian Senator David M. Cing.
Determined to find ways to be self-sufficient, Mr. Cing enlisted the help of an experienced meat processor to demonstrate the curing and smoking process.
“With a little bit of imagination and resourcefulness, we can find new ways to make better use of local products,” said Mr. Cing. “It is possible to save money and still have the best if we make the most of the resources that we have.”
He said the experiment yielded positive and “delicious” results.
“Our family had ham and bacon which we raised, cured and smoked right here on Tinian on Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year. The ham was very juicy and tender and the bacon is very tasty. It is also healthier than other bacon as there is more meat than fat,” he said.
He added that the people of the CNMI are looking for a better variety and quality of food products. “My experiment proved that we can process high quality ham and bacon right here.”
Ham and bacon are not the only food products Mr. Cing is planning to produce. His next project would be to make local corned beef, as well as port and fena denne sausages using Tinian’s hot pepper.
“I know everyone is going to want to try making these,” he said. Tinian’s hot pepper is widely well-known for its hot strength all over Japan, New Zealand and in the U.S. It was also entered in the Food Fair in Mississippi and was graded the hottest.
The senator already has a successful business making charcoal and is looking into the development of feed crops using natural resources and the manufacturing of sea salt.
He has also indicated that he would secure U.S. Department of Agriculture recommendation, as well as abide by all regulations with nutrition facts, quality packing and agriculture regulations both local and abroad.
“Tinian has been recognized as the leading provider of animal products in the Marianas since the Spanish era. I believe that agricultural revitalization could be the key to the island’s economic growth,” said Mr. Cing.
