Meghalaya’s health authorities have ordered statewide testing of fish sold in local markets following reports of heavy metal contamination in consignments sourced from neighbouring Assam.
The move comes after inputs suggested the presence of lead and other heavy metals beyond permissible limits in certain fish consignments originating from Assam, officials said on Tuesday. Acting on the alert, Food Safety Officers have been directed to collect samples from wholesale centres, retail markets and entry points across Meghalaya and send them to authorised laboratories for detailed analysis.
A senior food safety official said the inspections will be conducted in a coordinated manner to ensure thorough monitoring of fish supply chains entering the state.
Meghalaya meets most of its fish demand through imports from Assam and Andhra Pradesh, even as government agencies continue efforts to boost local fish production. In view of the potential public health risk, food safety authorities have instructed officers to intensify market surveillance and strictly enforce provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Officials said any fish found unfit for human consumption will be seized and destroyed, and legal action will be initiated against violators of food safety norms. The authorities stressed that the measures are precautionary and aimed at safeguarding public health.
