OCCURRENCE OF FORMALIN IN SMALL INDIGENOUS SPECIES (SIS) OF FISH AT SYLHET SADAR UPAZILA, SYLHET

Abstract

The present study was conducted to identify the formalin content and sources in some Small Indigenous Species of fish from May to June (summer) and November to December (winter), 2015 using testing kit. The SIS (Small Indigenous Species) of freshwater fishes such as Kachki (Corica soborna), Mola (Amblypharyngodon mola), Chapila (Gudusia chapra), Tengra (Mystus tengra), Tit punti (Puntius ticto) from market were evaluated for identification of formalin and sources in the market. It was observed that the fresh fish distribution chain from fishermen to consumers run through a number of intermediaries: wholesalers, paikers, local vendor and retailers. The number of sellers in the studied markets varied between 10 to 150. Eight fish markets were selected for testing of formalin contamination in consumable fish. A total of 200 fish samples were collected. Small Indigenous Species of fish is more vulnerable to spoilage due to their size and physiological condition. In the study area, formalin was found in 37.5% of total sampled fish in summer season and 22.5% in winter season in Sylhet Sadar Upazila. Among all the formalin contaminated fishes, the rate was found highest in Kazitula Bazar (60%) of Sylhet sadar upazila in summer season and 40% in Ambar Khana fish market in winter season. Lowest in Kazir Bazar, Lal Baza (20%) in summer season. It was observed that fish sellers were affected by various types of skin disease, inhalation problem and eye irritation problem etc. who handle these formalin contaminated fish regularly. However, quality monitoring system should be implemented in the fish market. It is, therefore, strongly recommended to ensure the institutional and government support and extension aids for improving the formalin testing methods, marketing systems and market facilities that can ensure a good quality fresh fish/safe fish in the markets for consumers.