Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Jul 2: In a significant assurance to Goan consumers and fish lovers, State Health Minister Vishwajit Rane stated on Tuesday that no traces of formalin have been detected in any of the fish samples tested at major entry check-posts and markets across Goa since 2019.

Addressing the media, Rane informed that 33,805 samples from Polem, 33,989 from Patradevi, and over 1.3 lakh samples from the Margao wholesale fish market were tested over the last five years and all tested negative for formalin, a chemical sometimes illicitly used to preserve fish.

The minister said the Directorate of Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) continues to carry out rigorous checks through both its state-of-the-art laboratory and third-party labs accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL).

"From March to June this year alone, samples collected from North and South Goa showed no signs of added formaldehyde," Rane assured.

The government, in collaboration with the Quality Council of India, has established a 24x7 monitoring system at the Polem and Patradevi check-posts and the Margao wholesale fish market, ensuring round-the-clock quality checks to safeguard public health.

Rane emphasized that ensuring the safety and quality of fish sold in the state remains a top priority for the FDA and the health department.

"Our commitment is towards delivering safe and healthy food to Goans. The public can consume local fish without fear," he added.