Kerala: 9,600 kg chemical-laced fish seized

Kerala state food safety department officials seized nearly 9,600 kg of fish, preserved in formalin at the border check post of Arayankavu in Kollam district. The officials intercepted two cargo vehicles from Tuticorin in neighbouring Tamil Nadu and found 7,000 kg of prawns and 2,600 kg of other species.

Formalin, a toxic chemical used to preserve bodies and prevent its decay in mortuaries, is now widely used in the preservation of fish, fruit and other food items. The chemical causes serious health hazards, say reports.

Based on a direction from Health Minister K K Shailaja, food safety department launched 'Operation Sagar Rani' last month particularly focussing on fish stock. After the launch of the operation, the officials have seized a total of 21,600 kg of fish with formalin.