In a welcome assurance for consumers, a surprise inspection by the Food Safety department at Sivasagar’s Central Market on Saturday found all tested fish samples to be completely free of formalin, a banned chemical preservative.
The drive, aimed at ensuring the quality and safety of food products, saw officials conduct on-the-spot tests on 11 different fish species using portable detection kits. Formalin, a solution of formaldehyde commonly used for embalming, is illegally applied to fish to extend its shelf life, despite being a known carcinogen that poses severe health risks.
A Food Safety official expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “Today’s results are very encouraging, as all samples tested negative. It shows that the traders in Sivasagar are cooperating and maintaining proper food safety standards.” The official stated that while the results are positive, continuous surveillance is crucial to maintain consumer confidence and deter future malpractices.
The negative test results were met with relief by local vendors. “Consumers often have doubts when they see fresh fish during the winter months. Now that all samples are clean, we hope customers will buy without fear,” said a seller at the market.
The findings mark a significant positive development in the state’s ongoing drive against the adulteration of fish, a staple protein. The department has been conducting regular vigilance drives across Assam to ensure the integrity of the local food supply chain and protect public health.
