The aftermath of the trawling ban has given rise to a thriving chemical fish market in Thiruvananthapuram, where traders are capitalizing on the fish shortage by sourcing supplies from other states.
The absence of adequate refrigeration facilities is a major concern, leading to the storage of spoiled fish in vehicles for extended periods, which are then transported and sold within the state. Recent inspections by the Food Safety Department have uncovered the confiscation and subsequent destruction of numerous kilograms of putrefied fish.
Inspections also include rigorous testing for harmful chemicals like formalin, sodium benzoate, and silver hydrogen peroxide in sampled fish. An estimated 150 loads of fish enter Kerala daily, with reports indicating that fish, lacking proper cooling systems, are being transported from Goa, Maharashtra, and Odisha. The lack of stringent checks on state borders allows these vehicles to reach wholesale distribution centres, infiltrating the local market seamlessly.
The Food Safety Department has taken action by seizing significant quantities of stale fish in various locations, including Nedumangad, Thiruvalla, Kasaragod, Kottayam, Varkala, and Thrissur.
Some confiscated fish specimens were found infested with worms. Additionally, fish transported via train from Odisha were part of the seized consignments, raising concerns about the overall quality and safety of the fish supply chain in the region.
