Formaldehyde in Calamares

Just a word of caution to calamares lovers... Our favorite deep fried squid is reported to contain formaldehyde popularly known as formalin. The latter which is used to preserve or embalm cadavers is a carcinogenic or a cancer causing substance and is thus very dangerous if ingested.

I first heard about the news in Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho last Saturday when a victim complained about it. Two days past, the report was reiterated in the afternoon news.

According to the report, the affected squids are imported from China and should be spoiled upon reaching Philippines had it not for the presence of formalin. They could have been costly if they are still fresh but they are not so they are sold for $40 per sack or P70.00 per kilo. That is the reason why they are affordable.

However, not all squids in the market are with formalin. Based on the tests conducted, some imported squids are affected. Local squids are formalin-free. Still, it is better to take precaution. Caveat.