Concerns have arisen over the use of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, in cabbage to maintain freshness in some regions of China. However, recent tests confirmed that no formaldehyde was detected in Chinese cabbage imported into South Korea.
The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety announced on August 26 that it conducted tests on eight shipments of Chinese cabbage reported for import on August 24 and found no traces of formaldehyde.
In response to the controversy surrounding so-called 'formaldehyde cabbage' in China, the ministry has implemented formaldehyde testing at customs for all incoming shipments of Chinese cabbage since August 24.
Additionally, the ministry is conducting tests on domestically produced and distributed cabbage kimchi and pickled cabbage. Inspections are being carried out at various manufacturing facilities, and samples of Chinese cabbage, cabbage kimchi, and pickled cabbage currently in circulation are being collected for testing. Results will be made public as they become available.
The ministry is also verifying whether the problematic cabbage was actually imported into South Korea. It is collaborating with the Chinese government to share information and trace the distribution routes of the cabbage.
Formaldehyde is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a part of the World Health Organization (WHO). While it is used in disinfectants and for preserving biological tissues, its use in food is prohibited.
Previously, the use of formaldehyde in cabbage to maintain freshness in some rural areas of China sparked controversy. The Chinese central government has ordered a special investigation to trace the distribution routes of the affected cabbage and is conducting sample tests in various regions.
A ministry official stated, "We will continue to gather information regarding the use of formaldehyde in cabbage and strengthen inspections to ensure that the public can consume food with confidence."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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