China's Formaldehyde-Tainted Cabbage Scandal Triggers Concerns Over Kimchi in South Korea
Spraying cabbage with the carcinogen to keep it fresh has long been an open secret within the industry.
TL;DR
- A viral video has exposed the practice of soaking Napa cabbage in formaldehyde for preservation in China.
- The practice is intended to preserve the cabbage for long transit periods.
- This has caused public concern in China and neighboring countries like South Korea, which imports Chinese kimchi and cabbage.
- The video was filmed in Kangbao County, Hebei Province, a major Napa cabbage-producing area.
- Farm workers were seen dipping cabbages in formaldehyde solution before loading them for shipment.