Overview

The Food Safety Department and the Fisheries Department joined forces on Tuesday to conduct a surprise formalin testing drive at the wholesale fish market in Tinsukia town, in Assam. Through this initiative, authorities aimed to protect public health and eliminate harmful adulterants from the food supply chain — a key focus of Assam’s ongoing food safety efforts.

On-the-Spot Testing Shows All-Clear

Officials collected samples from several fish vendors and tested them on the spot using portable formalin detection kits. All samples tested negative for formalin, providing much-needed reassurance to consumers. “We confirmed that the fish samples were completely free of formalin,” a food safety official said. “This outcome is encouraging, but we will continue conducting regular inspections to ensure ongoing compliance.”

Understanding the Risks of Formalin

Formalin, a solution of formaldehyde, commonly serves industrial and embalming purposes. When traders illegally use it to preserve fish, it poses severe health threats, including cancer, respiratory problems, and organ damage. Regulations strictly prohibit its use in food.

Statewide Campaign Targets Chemical Adulteration

Authorities have carried out similar drives across Assam in recent months as part of a broader push to combat chemical contamination in fresh produce and seafood. These efforts reflect both rising consumer awareness and the government’s commitment to ensuring clean, chemical-free food. “This inspection supports our mission to protect consumers and uphold strict food safety standards,” the official added.

Officials Urge Consumers to Stay Alert

Officials urged consumers to remain vigilant and report fish that appear too fresh or lack the characteristic smell of a fresh catch, possibly signs of chemical treatment. “We will continue the drive in the coming days and expand it to other markets in the district,” the official stated. “Regular monitoring remains critical to maintaining food safety and public health.”

Source: The Times of India