How to Tell if Chemicals Have Been Used to Preserve Dried Fish

Dried fish is a favorite in many homes — loved for its rich taste, long shelf life, and unique flavor in soups and stews. But in recent times, there’s been growing concern about the use of harmful chemicals to preserve dried fish, especially in open markets.

Some sellers use substances like formalin and sniper (DD Force) — chemicals meant for industrial — to prevent spoilage. These are toxic and unsafe for human consumption.

In a recent viral video, two experienced traders demonstrated simple, practical ways to identify when dried fish has been treated with chemicals. Here’s what they revealed:

1. Watch for Flies

The first sign is in how flies react to the fish.

“If flies don’t perch on your dried fish after you leave it outside for about 30 minutes, that’s a red flag,” the trader explained.

Flies are naturally attracted to dried fish. If your fish stays untouched by them, it may have been preserved with chemicals that repel insects.

2. Check for Ants

Another indicator is the absence of ants.

“When you open a carton of dried fish and you find no ants at all — not even one — it’s a strong sign chemicals have been used,” the speaker warned.

Ants love dried fish residue. If none are present, it’s likely because the chemicals have driven them away.

3. Inspect the Packaging

When buying cartons of dried fish, look closely at the box.

“If you notice random dark or patchy stains on the carton, that’s usually where the chemicals were applied,” they noted.

Those discolored areas may have soaked up traces of the preservative substances.

4. Smell the Fish

Use your nose — it’s one of the best detectors.

“When you perceive a harsh or chemical-like odor instead of the normal dried fish smell, that’s a clear warning sign,” the speaker said.

Even if you don’t recognize the exact scent of substances like formalin or sniper, any unnatural smell should make you cautious.

5. The Life Test (Bonus Tip)

The presenters also mentioned a simple “life test.”

“Take a small piece of the dried fish and leave it where small insects or microorganisms can reach it. If nothing touches it, it likely contains chemicals,” they said.

Even insects naturally avoid chemically treated fish.

Safer Preservation Methods

Instead of using harmful preservatives, the best and safest way to store dried fish is by re-oven drying.

“The best way to preserve fish without giving yourself headaches is by re-oven drying,” one trader advised.

Oven-drying helps maintain taste and quality while eliminating the need for dangerous chemicals.

They also recommended buying river fish, which tends to be fresher and less exposed to chemical treatment.

Stay Safe — Buy from Trusted Sellers

With chemical use becoming more common, it’s important to buy your dried fish from trusted, transparent sellers who care about quality and health.

If you’re looking for a reliable source of clean, naturally preserved dried fish, remember the name — Afripasspot.

Afripasspot is known for safe, chemical-free dried fish — rich in flavor, properly oven-dried, and handled with care from start to finish.

Your health matters. The next time you shop for dried fish, check for the signs — and buy only from sellers you can trust.

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