China investigates formaldehyde use in cabbage preservation

Beijing has reaffirmed its ban on the use of a known carcinogenic substance for food preservation, a restriction that applies across all sectors of the nation’s food industry. The prohibition, enforced by the State Administration for Market Regulation, aligns with China’s broader food‑safety framework and comes as the country maintains its position as the world’s largest producer of cabbages, a staple crop that accounts for a significant share of domestic consumption and export markets.

The regulation, first introduced in 2020 and tightened in 2024, prohibits the addition of the carcinogen to any processed or fresh produce, including cabbage products, and mandates regular inspections and penalties for non‑compliance. Authorities have reported increased testing of supply chains and have issued guidance to manufacturers on alternative preservation methods. The ban is expected to bolster consumer confidence and ensure that China’s extensive cabbage output meets international safety standards, reinforcing the country’s commitment to public health and trade credibility.