Health Concerns Rise Over Hazardous Preservatives in Imported Fruits and Fish in Agartala Markets

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, March 10, 2026

Serious concerns are being raised over the alleged use of hazardous chemical preservatives in fruits and fish entering Tripura from outside the state. Consumers and market observers have long complained that items brought from other states and neighbouring countries may contain chemicals that pose significant health risks, yet there are few visible enforcement drives to curb the problem.

According to buyers in Agartala and other parts of the state, fruits and fish arriving in Tripura’s markets from places such as Bangladesh, Kolkata and Andhra Pradesh are often suspected of being treated with harmful preservatives to maintain their appearance and prolong shelf life during transportation.

Consumers have particularly raised concerns about fruits such as grapes, apples and pears brought from outside the state. Many buyers allege that a large portion of these imported fruits are treated with preservatives that may be harmful to human health. In addition, fruits like mangoes, bananas and papayas are often suspected of being chemically treated to accelerate ripening and improve their appearance. Buyers say these fruits often look unusually shiny and remain fresh for long periods, raising suspicion about chemical treatment.

Fish transported from outside Tripura often travel long distances without adequate cold storage. To keep the fish looking fresh, traders are suspected of using chemical preservatives.

One of the most dangerous chemicals reportedly detected in fish samples in the past is formalin (formaldehyde). Formalin is a toxic chemical commonly used in mortuaries to preserve dead bodies, yet authorities and researchers have previously found traces of this substance in fish sold in markets in Agartala and other parts of the state.

Studies and reports have also indicated that imported fish, locally known as “chalani mach,” may sometimes contain cadmium along with formaldehyde.

Health experts warn that consuming fish contaminated with formalin can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness and irritation of the throat and stomach. Long-term exposure may increase the risk of cancer, kidney damage and liver failure.

Fruits imported from outside the state are also suspected of being treated with chemicals to speed up ripening and improve their market appearance.

One of the most commonly cited substances is calcium carbide, locally referred to as “masala.” This chemical releases acetylene gas to artificially ripen fruits. Calcium carbide may contain traces of toxic elements such as arsenic and phosphorus.

Another chemical sometimes used is ethephon, a pesticide that can accelerate ripening but may also pose health risks when misused.

In addition, artificial wax coatings or petroleum-based waxes and metallic colours are sometimes used to make fruits look more attractive and shiny for buyers.

Health experts warn that consuming fruits treated with such chemicals may lead to burning sensations in the chest or abdomen, vomiting, diarrhea, skin ulcers and other health complications. Some of these chemicals are also classified as potential carcinogens.

Tripura had previously witnessed a major formalin scare in 2017, when traces of formalin were detected in fish imported from Bangladesh. Following the reports, the state government temporarily restricted fish imports through several Land Customs Stations.

Investigations and monitoring over the years have indicated that fish brought from Bangladesh, Kolkata and Andhra Pradesh sometimes contain traces of chemical preservatives.

After the 2017 incident, the state fisheries department and food safety authorities reportedly conducted raids, random testing and awareness campaigns in markets to curb the use of harmful chemicals. However, many consumers now claim that such drives are not conducted regularly.

The experts warn that in Agartala markets, issue is not limited to fish and fruits. There are also complaints from consumers about the sale of adulterated liquor in several wine shops in the state. Allegations have also surfaced regarding the sale of substandard medicines and even adulterated baby food in some establishments.

Despite these complaints, many consumers say they rarely see regular inspections or enforcement drives by the authorities to detect such products.

Several buyers in Agartala have said that if food inspectors from the Health Department conduct even occasional surprise inspections in markets, fruit stalls, fish markets, pharmacies and liquor shops, many such adulterated products could easily be detected.

Tripura has a wing under the Health Department responsible for food safety and monitoring adulterated food items. Public health observers say stronger monitoring, regular inspections and laboratory testing of food items are essential to ensure that hazardous chemicals are not entering the food supply chain.

Experts advise consumers to remain cautious while buying imported fish and fruits.

Fish that appears unusually stiff or rubbery, has abnormally red gills, or lacks the typical fishy smell should be avoided.

For fruits, buyers should be careful if the fruits appear uniformly bright yellow or excessively shiny, which may indicate artificial ripening or wax coating.

Washing fruits thoroughly before consumption and preferring locally sourced produce whenever possible can help reduce the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.

Public health advocates say that without consistent monitoring and enforcement, consumers in Tripura may continue to face the risk of consuming chemically treated food products brought from outside the state.

more news...