Fall in formalin import: A sigh of relief

It is good to know that import of formalin has reduced significantly in our country. The government needs to put more restriction on importing and selling the substance as the poisonous ingredient is playing havoc with our health. We need to protect our citizens from its harmful use in food items.

This year only one-third of last year's formalin imports has been made. Having formalin-treated foods can be fatal for human body, as it can cause cancer and diseases like liver and kidney failure. I hope soon our food items will be free from formalin.

Many importers are importing formalin in other names, so that they can dodge the eyes of customs officials and the law enforcing agencies. According to experts, every year we need 100 tonnes of formalin. So far the government has done a good job by reducing the imports and it is indeed good news. The common people will now feel safe to know that gradually the use of formalin in edible items is getting reduced.

Mohammad Sohel hara

Banasree, Dhaka

sohelhara@hotmail.com