No formaldehyde found in Chinese cabbage shipments to South Korea so far, authorities say

South Korean food safety authorities have reported no detectable levels of formaldehyde in eight shipments of Chinese cabbage tested following allegations that the chemical was used to preserve the produce in China. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety confirmed that shipments arriving on August 24 and 25 all tested negative for the substance.

In response to public concern, the ministry has implemented stricter inspection measures. Since August 24, every shipment of cabbage imported from China is being tested for formaldehyde during customs clearance. The authorities are also extending these tests to include Chinese-made kimchi and pickled cabbage, examining products from all Chinese manufacturers. Results from these ongoing tests will be released as they become available.

The heightened scrutiny follows a video circulating online that purportedly showed cabbage being dipped in a formaldehyde solution before transport. The extent of this practice and whether any affected products have entered South Korea remain unconfirmed. The issue has garnered significant public attention, particularly as China supplies approximately 99% of South Korea's imported kimchi.

Formaldehyde is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, and exposure can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. A ministry official stated, "We will continue to monitor information related to the use of formaldehyde on Chinese cabbage and strengthen inspections so that people can consume food with confidence." The ministry is committed to ongoing monitoring and increased inspections to ensure consumer safety.

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We will continue to monitor information related to the use of formaldehyde on Chinese cabbage and strengthen inspections so that people can consume food with confidence.