Fish samples collected for formalin test

SHILLONG, June 27: The Fisheries department on Tuesday collected the samples of imported fish at Khlieh Iewduh here for laboratory tests.
The exercise comes two days after the state government lifted the 15-day ban on the import of fish.
Officials of the Fisheries department collected the samples of fish unloaded from trucks. The samples will be sent to the laboratory for testing to confirm if they have any presence of formalin.
Khasi Jaintia Fish Wholesalers and Retailers Association member, T Wankhar told reporters the only problem is they will not get the report of the test on the spot since the samples will have to be sent to the lab.
He urged the government to provide the report immediately, pointing out that fish is a perishable product. The fish which arrived included Rohu, Boal and Pangasius.
Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh said the testing of fish for formalin content will continue and if its levels are found to be high, the ban on imported fish will be reimposed.
She advised people to be alert and suggested that people go for local fish for the time being.
Talking about the interaction with the fish merchants, she said, “They say they have a certification from the government of Karnataka. So, where is this tampering of fish happening?”
Insisting on safety measures, Lyngdoh said, “You can’t keep passing the buck but there is a procedure for violation of food safety.”
She categorically stated that the fish vendors and merchants must ensure the safety aspect.