Qualitative detection of formaldehyde and ammonia in fish and seafood from local fish markets in Balasore, eastern India

Abstract

The illegal use of chemical preservatives such as formaldehyde and ammonia to extend the shelflife of fish and seafood has become a growing food safety concern due to their potential adverse effects on consumer health. The current study investigated the occurrence of formaldehyde and ammonia in fish and other seafood marketed in Balasore, Odisha, eastern India. A total of 106 samples of fish and seafood were collected from four different fish markets in Balasore town and screened for the presence of these preservatives. The results showed that 75.47% of the samples were tested positive for formaldehyde and 22.64% were positive for ammonia. Contamination was detected only in fish and seafood transported from outside the region, whereas locally caught samples were free from both preservatives. These findings indicate the possible use of chemical preservatives during transportation and storage of fish and seafood brought from outside, in order to prolong freshness. Given the significant health risks associated with exposure to formaldehyde and ammonia, there is an urgent need to develop safe and effective preservation technologies that can maintain seafood quality during transportation, without compromising consumer safety. 

Keywords: Consumer health, Fish markets, Preservatives, Seafood safety