Key Update

To ensure the safety and quality of fish sold during the monsoon season, Kerala’s Fisheries and Food Safety departments have jointly launched Operation Sagar Rani. The statewide enforcement drive focuses on preventing spoilage, maintaining cold-chain standards, and curbing illegal practices in the fish supply chain. The initiative comes at a time when Kerala depends heavily on fish imports from other states due to the annual trawling ban.

High Demand Keeps Fish Flowing into Kerala

Dr K. Sahadevan, Managing Director of Matsyafed, said fish remains a staple food for a large section of Kerala’s population, with annual per capita consumption estimated at around 23 kg. To meet demand during the lean fishing season, traders bring fish into Kerala from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Odisha, and other states. Gujarat continues to supply a significant share of the dried fish sold in the State.

Officials Stress the Importance of the Cold Chain

Officials have highlighted the need to maintain proper refrigeration from the moment fish is caught. According to Dr Sahadevan, fish should remain close to 0°C during storage and transport. Higher temperatures can accelerate bacterial growth and speed up spoilage. Ambily R., Joint Director of Fisheries, explained that fish requires adequate icing throughout transport and storage to retain its quality. However, some operators reduce ice usage to cut costs, increasing the risk of spoilage before the fish reaches consumers. She warned that fish transported over long distances without proper refrigeration may become unsafe for consumption.

Authorities Target Illegal Preservation Practices

Officials have also raised concerns about the illegal use of banned chemicals such as formalin and ammonia. Some traders use these substances to slow spoilage and make older fish appear fresh despite poor storage conditions. The departments have warned that such practices violate food safety regulations and pose potential risks to consumers.

Surprise Inspections Underway Across the Supply Chain

As part of Operation Sagar Rani, joint inspection teams have begun conducting surprise checks at fishing harbours, landing centres, warehouses, retail markets, and fish distribution points. Authorities are also monitoring online fish sellers and home-delivery networks to ensure compliance with food safety standards. In addition, officials are carrying out intelligence-based investigations to trace the source of fish entering the State and identify those involved in the sale of spoiled or improperly stored products.

Consumers Asked to Check Fish Before Buying

Officials have advised consumers to inspect fish carefully before making a purchase. Fresh fish generally has firm flesh, clear eyes, and a natural smell. Consumers should avoid fish with a soft texture, dull eyes, or a strong chemical odour, as these signs may indicate spoilage or improper handling. Through Operation Sagar Rani, the government aims to strengthen food safety enforcement and ensure that consumers receive safe, fresh, and high-quality fish throughout the monsoon season.

Source: The Hindu