Shillong, Sep 25: ICAR-CIFT, Kochi and ICAR-KVK Ri Bhoi, Umiam organised a workshop-cum-demonstration on rapid detection of fish adulterants at Umiam.
Twenty Fishery officers and Subject Matter Specialists (Fishery) from KVKs across the state participated.
The ICAR-CIFT team – Dr. Laly S. J., Senior Scientist, Dr. Priya E. R., Scientist and Padmaraj E.R., Technical Officer – led hands-on sessions on paper-strip based rapid detection kits for formaldehyde (formalin) and ammonia in fresh fish.
The kits deliver visual colour results within 2-3 minutes, overcoming limitations of laboratory-bound methods, and are ideal for market-level and field screening. Participants were trained to swab test strips on fish surfaces, apply reagents and interpret colour changes against a standard chart.
The training is aimed at strengthening on-site inspection capacity at landing centres, wholesale hubs and retail outlets, critical as most fish consumed in Meghalaya is imported from other states. Early detection will support enforcement under FSSAI guidelines, deter malpractice and build public trust.
