China Probes Formaldehyde-Treated Cabbage in Hebei, Extending Freshness by 2 to 3 Days
Updated
Updated · asiae.co.kr · Aug 24
China Probes Formaldehyde-Treated Cabbage in Hebei, Extending Freshness by 2 to 3 Days
3 articles · Updated · asiae.co.kr · Aug 24
Summary
Kangbao County in Hebei confirmed that workers dipped cabbage roots in formaldehyde solution before loading trucks, a practice officials say was used to keep produce fresh for two to three extra days.
Video posted by a Chinese blogger triggered the probe, showing a container labeled formaldehyde solution at a cabbage purchasing site and workers treating cabbages bound for long-distance transport.
Public security authorities have taken legal action against people involved and the vehicles used, while tracing distribution channels and widening checks across procurement, transport and vegetable sales in the county.
Formaldehyde is a Group 1 carcinogen under the WHO's IARC and is illegal in food handling under China's Food Safety Law; authorities have not yet confirmed whether the affected cabbages reached export markets such as South Korea.