SHILLONG : The Meghalaya Food Safety Department has begun collecting vegetable samples from Ïewduh market following public concern over reports that chemically treated vegetables from Assam may have entered markets in the state.
The move comes days after authorities in Assam seized 15 sacks of pointed gourds, locally known as potol, suspected to have been treated with chemical colouring agents to make spoiled vegetables appear fresh before being supplied to markets.
Speaking on the issue, Food Safety Commissioner (Enforcement) Bahun Shisha Mukhim said the department has already started collecting samples for testing and is closely monitoring the situation.
“We will wait for the report of the samples collected today,” Mukhim said, adding that laboratory results are expected within the next fortnight.
The controversy erupted after visuals and reports from Barpeta Road wholesale vegetable market in Assam surfaced online, allegedly showing vegetables being coated with a green chemical substance before transportation.
The reports triggered concern in Meghalaya after claims emerged that some of the vegetable consignments were allegedly meant for Shillong markets. But, Meghalaya food safety authorities clarified that no contamination has been officially confirmed so far.
Mukhim stated that the department routinely conducts market inspections, spot tests and food sample collection exercises across the state, including as part of nationwide food safety monitoring programmes coordinated through the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
“We have conducted spot tests earlier as well but never found contamination in vegetables,” she said. The Commissioner also urged the public not to panic but to remain cautious while purchasing vegetables from markets.
Related : 15 sacks of suspected chemically treated potol seized in Assam, Shillong markets on alert
Consumers have been advised to avoid buying vegetables that appear unnaturally bright or suspiciously fresh and immediately report suspected cases to the Food Safety Department.
“If people suspect artificial colouring or chemical treatment, they should inform the department or bring samples directly to the office for testing,” Mukhim said.
She further explained that the department follows separate legal procedures depending on laboratory findings. Cases involving minor violations are referred to the Adjudication Officer, while food officially declared unsafe for human consumption can lead to criminal proceedings before courts.
Meanwhile, authorities in Assam are continuing investigations into the Barpeta Road incident after food safety teams conducted a late-night raid and seized 15 sacks of suspected chemically treated potol from the wholesale market.