Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar. 27: Upon the direction of Commissioner Food Safety, A&N Islands (DC,SA), the Joint Commissioner (Food Safety)/ADM(SA) along with a team of Food Safety Officials conducted field inspection at the Fish Market, Junglighat today. The inspection was conducted to check the use of harmful chemicals such as formalin in fishes being sold in the South Andaman District. Harmful chemicals are used sometimes to prolong the freshness of fish.
The team carried out tests of the fishes in the market using test kits developed by ICAR- CIFT Cochin. Out of more than 50 samples tested, 04 were found to be positive with formalin content. Further investigation with accredited labs is being done on the positive samples and action deemed appropriate under Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 will be taken. The Joint Commissioner (Food Safety)/ADM interacted with the fish sellers in the market and informed them about the harmful effects of such formalin laced fishes on human health. The Joint Commissioner (Food Safety)/ADM has strictly warned all the stake holders to refrain from any such activities. The punitive action shall be initiated under the provisions of FSS Act and appropriate action will be taken against the violators to ensure the public health and safety.
Further, another team of Food Safety Officials were also deputed to collect samples of water and ice that are being used for preservation of fishes commonly by local fish vendors. Spot test of ice and water were also carried out with the use of field test kit and were found negative.
Moreover, the Food Safety Department has also lifted regulatory samples of fishes to be analysed by the FSSAI and NABL accredited laboratory for various parameters prescribed by FSSAI.
The Joint Commissioner (Food Safety)/ADM has warned the food business operators not to indulge in any such violations failing which strict action under Food Safety Act shall be initiated against the violators. The general public can lodge their complaints at phone No. 03192-236112.
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