Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 28 March 2025
Acting on the directions of the Commissioner of Food Safety, Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman), the Joint Commissioner (Food Safety)/ADM (SA), along with a team of Food Safety Officials, conducted a surprise inspection at the Fish Market in Junglighat on 27th March 2025. The inspection aimed to detect the possible use of harmful chemicals, such as formalin, which is sometimes used to prolong the freshness of fish.
During the inspection, the team tested fish samples using rapid test kits developed by ICAR-CIFT, Cochin. Out of more than 50 samples tested, 4 samples were found positive for formalin. The positive samples have been sent for further analysis at accredited laboratories, and appropriate action will be taken under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The Joint Commissioner (Food Safety)/ADM engaged with fish vendors during the inspection and educated them about the harmful effects of formalin-laced fish on human health. He issued a strict warning to all stakeholders, emphasising that punitive action will be initiated against violators to ensure public health and safety.
In a parallel operation, another team of Food Safety Officials collected samples of water and ice used by local fish vendors for fish preservation. Spot tests conducted on these samples using field test kits yielded negative results, indicating no harmful substances.
Additionally, regulatory samples of fish have been lifted by the Food Safety Department for detailed analysis by FSSAI and NABL-accredited laboratories to assess compliance with prescribed safety standards.
The Joint Commissioner (Food Safety)/ADM reiterated his warning to food business operators, cautioning them against indulging in any such violations. He emphasized that strict action will be taken under the Food Safety Act against offenders.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any concerns or complaints regarding food safety by calling 03192-236112.