Formaldehyde in Fish

Reports of traces of the chemical formaldehyde in fish in several States highlight both the uncertainties of science, and

the importance of clear risk-communication. The Kerala government found formaldehyde-laced fish being transported into the State.

Key Info

• The use of this chemical is banned in fresh foods, like fish, by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. But, unscrupulous vendors sometimes use it to preserve fish for longer.
• However, formaldehyde also occurs naturally in fish. It occurs naturally not only in fish, but other foods like mushrooms as well. However, levels vary widely.
• In general, marine fish are more likely to ....