China investigates use of formaldehyde in cabbage storage
Chinese authorities have launched an investigation into reports that wholesalers used the carcinogenic chemical formaldehyde to preserve cabbage. The case has drawn wide public attention and triggered market inspections nationwide.
Authorities in China have opened an investigation after reports emerged that formaldehyde was being used to preserve cabbage intended for human consumption, the BBC reports. The case surfaced after a video appeared online showing cabbages being dipped in a liquid before being loaded onto trucks. The footage was first shared by a blogger focused on environmental issues.
Officials in Hebei province, in northeastern China, confirmed they had verified the video's authenticity. Formaldehyde is a colourless, carcinogenic chemical typically used to preserve biological specimens, and its use in food processing is strictly banned in China.
Investigation and inspections
Police have already launched a probe to determine how widespread the practice is and to identify any vegetables that may have been treated with the chemical. Local authorities in Kangbao county said any illegal or unauthorised activity would be strictly punished under the law to ensure vegetable safety.
At the same time, inspections are being carried out at markets across the country in an effort to prevent panic and restore public trust. The Xinfadi market in Beijing, one of the capital's main sources of fresh produce, said it had checked the origin of the cabbage sold there and found no formaldehyde-treated products.
The case has drawn significant attention from Chinese media. An editorial in the People's Daily said the wholesalers involved had pursued profit while disregarding consumer health, crossing legal red lines and losing any moral standing.
China is the world's largest cabbage producer, growing around 30 million tonnes annually — nearly half of global output. A large share is exported, mainly to Vietnam, South Korea and Russia.
