Key Update

The Meghalaya Commissionerate of Food Safety has confirmed that fish sold across the state are safe for consumption. Laboratory tests found no heavy metals or formalin beyond permissible limits, dismissing earlier reports that claimed fish supplied from Assam contained elevated levels of lead and other metals.

Lab Tests Find No Safety Violations

Food safety officials collected around 45 fish samples from wholesale centres, retail markets, and state entry points across multiple districts. They sent the samples to NABL-accredited laboratories in Kolkata for analysis. The reports confirmed that all samples complied with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) norms.

Assam Fish Tested as a Precautionary Measure

Although the test results cleared local markets, the department sent samples of fish imported from Assam for separate heavy metal testing as a precaution. The move followed reports of lead contamination in certain fish species sold in Guwahati markets. Officials said there is no need for public panic and assured that they will act only on verified laboratory findings.

Government Emphasises Monitoring and Local Production

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said officials conduct random inspections, even though testing every consignment is not feasible. He added that authorities take action whenever they detect abnormal levels at supplier or market points. Meghalaya consumes about 28,000–30,000 metric tonnes of fish annually and continues to rely on imports despite rising local production. The government is promoting fish farming to improve self-sufficiency and minimise contamination risks.

Routine Safety Checks to Continue

Officials also tested egg samples collected from all districts and found them compliant with prescribed safety standards. The department reiterated that routine monitoring and inspections will continue to protect public health.

Source: India Today NE