China confirms illegal use of formaldehyde on cabbage for preservation

A shocking discovery in China's largest cabbage-producing region has revealed a disturbing practice: the use of carcinogenic formaldehyde solution to preserve the vegetables before transport. The revelation came from a prominent environmental influencer, known as "Fisher-Hunter Qi Ge," who documented the process in Hebei province.

In a video shared on the Chinese platform Bilibili, the influencer, posing as a passerby, captured footage of containers filled with formaldehyde solution next to trucks loaded with cabbage. The chemical, commonly known as formalin when in a 35-40% aqueous solution, is used for disinfection and preservation but is a known carcinogen. The influencer expressed dismay, stating the cabbage was no longer edible.

The video quickly caused public alarm, prompting an investigation by the local government in Kangbao County, Zhangjiakou City. Authorities confirmed the illegal activity, acknowledging that buyers used formaldehyde to keep the cabbage fresh during transit. Law enforcement has since taken mandatory measures against the individuals and vehicles involved and initiated a trace-back of the contaminated cabbage.

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These cabbages can no longer be eaten.