Formalin In Fish: CMC Collects Samples From Markets, Godowns In Cuttack

Cuttack: The Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) has collected samples of different varieties of fish following raids on markets and godowns here.

“Simultaneous raids were conducted at different markets and godowns on Sunday. The fish samples have been sent to the food testing laboratory in Bhubaneswar to examine for traces of cancer-causing formalin,” informed CMC heath officer Pravakar Pradhan on Monday.

Strict action will be taken against those using this chemical to preserve the stock, he added.

On July 13, traces of formalin were found in Pomfret fish samples collected from Unit-4 fish market in Bhubaneswar. Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department Secretary Vishal Gagan had confirmed the same.

Meanwhile, the Odisha government has despatched special kits to several coastal districts where huge quantities of fish are being imported from neighbouring states.

These kits will be used to detect substances used for preserving fish stocks.