Formaldehyde, Chemical Used to Preserve Dead Bodies, Suspected in Massive Rotten Meat Seizures Across J&K – Alfaaz – The Words

Alfaaz – The Words Desk

Srinagar: The ongoing crackdown on unsafe food in Kashmir has taken a disturbing turn, with unconfirmed reports suggesting that formaldehyde, a chemical more commonly associated with preserving dead bodies, may have been used in meat products circulating in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Valley.

Investigators are reportedly probing whether the banned substance was present in seized consignments of frozen kebabs, gushtabas, and ristas, allegedly to artificially extend their shelf life well beyond safe limits. Official confirmation, however, is still awaited.

Since the intensified drive began in the last week of July, authorities have confiscated large quantities of unfit meat. A single raid in Zakura Industrial Estate uncovered 1,200 kilograms of spoiled mutton. Over the past week, more than 3,500 kilograms of decomposed and unlabelled meat have been seized from Srinagar, Pulwama, Ganderbal, and other districts. Cumulative figures from the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) indicate over 12,000 kilograms have been destroyed since the campaign began, though some reports place the total closer to 13,000 kilograms, including 11,600 kilograms of allegedly imported rotten meat.

Health experts note that if present, formaldehyde is a Group 1 carcinogen that can cause serious long-term health damage, even in small doses. Authorities have described the suspected practice as “criminal and life-threatening” and have vowed strict legal action if lab tests confirm the findings. FIRs have already been lodged against certain suppliers, and inspections have been intensified across the Union Territory.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in wake of the situation, has directed tighter checks at key entry points such as Lakhanpur and Qazigund to prevent contaminated supplies from reaching local markets.

Meanwhile, officials are urging consumers to remain cautious, purchase meat only from trusted vendors, and immediately report any suspicious practices.