The Bhutan Food Agriculture and Regulatory Authority (BAFRA) has confirmed that fish imported from India are free of formalin and safe for consumption.
Formalin is a chemical used to preserve fish, vegetables and other food items for a longer period of time.
BAFRA’s assurance comes amid formalin scare that hit the fish markets in India recently, which has prompted fears among the Bhutanese consumers.
“From third of July, we have directed field officials at all border entry points to test chilled fish consignments coming into the country. All fish consignments that entered Bhutan until 18th of July tested negative for formalin,” Dr Kinley Penjor from BAFRA said.
He added BAFRA is working to ensure all fish supplies entering the Bhutanese market are safe.
“On the 19th, two consignments of Pankaj and Rui species tested positive. So, as per the livestock rules and regulations 2017, we seized and destroyed them.
The food regulatory authority added that fish imports will be routed through India’s Export Inspection Council starting August. The council monitors and ensures food items, including fish, going out of India are free of pesticides, heavy metals and formalin.
