Latest news with #LawrenceAl-Majali
Roya News
26-06-2025
- Health
- Roya News
Agriculture ministry addresses watermelon illness rumors in Jordan
In recent days, social media platforms in Jordan have witnessed widespread debate following reports from citizens who said they experienced illness after eating watermelon. The situation sparked questions about the quality of this popular summer fruit currently available in local markets. In an official statement, Lawrence Al-Majali, spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture, denied any health concerns related to the quality of Jordanian watermelon, describing the rumors as 'an annual hoax that resurfaces at the start of every season.' Majali stated that 'Jordanian watermelon is considered one of the best agricultural products in the region, known for its high quality and high demand across regional markets.' He noted that since the fruit grows in direct contact with soil, its surface may carry bacteria, especially when organic fertilizers are used. He explained that in some cases, the illness is caused by not washing the fruit properly. Cutting into an unwashed watermelon allows bacteria on the surface to enter the flesh via the knife, which can later result in food poisoning or feelings of nausea. He also pointed out that prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or improper storage, especially when watermelons are sold from cars or open-air markets without refrigeration, can cause spoilage. He added that the Ministry of Agriculture immediately investigates any such reports. For his part, engineer Mahmoud Al-Awran, Director General of the Farmers' Union, clarified that the use of growth regulators by farmers does not pose a health risk. He emphasized that these substances are used only at the early stages of growth to help blossoms set fruit and are not applied during the production phase. As for pesticides, Awran stressed that they are used under strict supervision from the Ministry of Agriculture, taking into account the 'safety interval,' which does not exceed 48 hours before harvest, minimizing any harmful effects on consumer health. Providing a medical perspective, Dr. Wasim Hammoudeh, an internal medicine consultant, explained that cases of diarrhea linked to watermelon may be caused by overconsumption. He noted that summer fruits like watermelon contain natural sugars such as fructose and sorbitol, which can lead to loose stools when eaten in excess. Dr. Hammoudeh added that another potential cause of illness is contamination from the knife used to cut the fruit, especially if the outer surface was not washed properly, allowing bacteria to transfer from the rind to the inner flesh. He concluded by emphasizing that 'watermelon is naturally sealed and nothing, not even air, enters it. But neglecting to wash it before cutting or storing it improperly is the main reason behind the occasional health issues.'
Jordan News
04-06-2025
- Business
- Jordan News
Ministry of Agriculture Announces Indicative Prices for Eid Al-Adha Sacrificial Animals - Jordan News
The Ministry of Agriculture has announced the opening of imports for live sacrificial animals from Syria, as part of efforts to boost supply in local markets and stabilize prices ahead of Eid Al-Adha. اضافة اعلان According to the ministry's spokesperson, Lawrence Al-Majali, in a radio statement, importing live Syrian kids (young goats) has been approved and they are now available in local markets as an option for Eid sacrifices. He added that importing live sheep from Syria is currently limited to the military institution only, noting that this decision is part of the ministry's policy to diversify sources of sacrificial animals and reduce pressure on domestic production. Al-Majali highlighted that most sacrificial animals in Jordan are of local origin, in addition to imported animals from countries such as Romania, Australia, and Spain. He emphasized that importing from Syria helps balance supply and demand during the Eid season and enhances citizens' ability to purchase sacrifices at reasonable prices. Sacrificial Animal Prices Al-Majali noted that the livestock market in Jordan is witnessing an unprecedented abundance this year, with about 580,000 heads of local and imported sheep available, while the market demand is estimated at only 250,000 to 300,000 heads. He also shared indicative prices for sacrifices: The average price for a medium-sized imported sacrifice ranges between 200 to 225 Jordanian Dinars. The local sacrifice ranges between 220 to 260 Dinars, depending on supply, demand, and availability. He clarified that these prices are indicative, not fixed, and based on market conditions. Prices usually start to drop after the afternoon of the first day of Eid and continue to decline during the following Tashreeq days. Al-Majali urged citizens to shop around and compare prices before buying, noting that there are over 400 livestock sale points in Amman alone, in addition to other sites across the kingdom.
