The formalin is being imported in alternative names after enactment of the new Act, sources said.
Formaldehyde, formaldehyde solution, methanol, methanol solution, methyldehyde, methyldehyde solution, Para-formaldehyde, Para-formaldehyde solution, Paraform, formazin, formal and morbicid are reportedly described as the alternative names.
These are applied in fruits, fishes, milk, vegetables and other items.
The chemistry department of the Dhaka University in its laboratory tested 14 items of chemicals seized by the police from shops on the Nazimuddin Road and at Aziz Supper Marker. The 13 items are
nothing but formalin, says the test report. The pots of chemicals had been found in different names.
The police have already collected information about permitted 38 formalin-imported companies. They are also trying to find out whether any other company is importing formalin or marketing.
If anyone is found to import or to market the formalin, he or she will be taken to the book, said a senior police official of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).
A senior officer of the commerce ministry said, the government will take action if anyone imports formalin in alternative names, adding, “The definition of formalin is given in the new formalin related Act”.
Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed disclosed it in the parliament recently that 55,000 KG formalin was imported during 2012-13 fiscal year, 2.5 lakh KG in 2011-12 and 5.44 lakh KG in 2009-10.
