South Korea has heightened its inspections of imported Chinese cabbage following reports of cabbage sellers in northern China using formaldehyde solution to preserve vegetables. The Chinese government has launched a nationwide food safety investigation, specifically targeting Kangbao County in Hebei Province where the incident was filmed and confirmed by local authorities. Formaldehyde, a known Group 1 carcinogen, was allegedly used by a purchaser to maintain cabbage freshness for an additional two to three days during transportation.
This development is significant for South Korea, which relies heavily on Chinese cabbage for kimchi production. In the past year, South Korea imported a record $169.4 million worth of kimchi, with 263,434 tons in volume, a 9.5% increase from the previous year. The country has consistently shown a kimchi trade deficit, with imports outpacing exports, largely due to cheaper Chinese-made kimchi driven by inflation and surging domestic cabbage prices.
Korean authorities, including the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, are actively working through the Korean Embassy in China to determine if any of the affected cabbage was exported to South Korea. They have pledged to take necessary measures if such information is confirmed. Meanwhile, China's State Administration for Market Regulation has instructed local authorities to trace distribution routes, prevent affected cabbage from entering the market, and conduct nationwide sampling inspections.
Major Chinese markets are also taking precautions. Beijing's Xinfadi Market has confirmed no affected cabbage entered its supply, while Nanjing's Zhongcai Vegetable Market has banned cabbage from Kangbao County and mandated formaldehyde testing for cabbage from other regions. The incident highlights concerns over food safety and its potential impact on international trade and consumer confidence.
