Don’t Just Buy Takjil Blindly: Here Are Signs of Foods Containing Formalin and Borax

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - An appealing appearance of food does not necessarily mean it is safe to eat. The Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has reminded the public to be vigilant against the possible misuse of hazardous substances in foods, such as formalin, borax, and textile dyes.

‘The appearance is appealing, but… An attractive look does not automatically guarantee safety. As consumers we need to be more discerning before buying and consuming foods,’ BPOM said in an Instagram post on @bpom_ri, quoted on Wednesday (4/3/2026).

BPOM notes that several chemicals intended for industrial use are frequently misused in foods to make products look more appealing or last longer. One of the most commonly found is formalin.

This substance is normally used as a preservative for wood, textiles, and even organs. However, illegally, formalin is sometimes used to preserve foods to delay spoilage.

Signs that a food contains formalin

BPOM explains that foods containing formalin usually have several signs, including:

1. Its texture does not break apart easily

2. It has a characteristic formalin odour

3. It can last more than a day at room temperature

‘Some types of foods commonly found to contain formalin include fresh noodles, tofu, and fish, among others. Continuous consumption of formalin over a long period can trigger health problems,’ BPOM said in the post.

In addition to formalin, the public is urged to beware of the misuse of borax, also known as bleng or pijer. This substance is often used illegally to make the texture of foods more chewy and appealing.

Signs that a food contains borax

Foods containing borax usually:

1. Have a very chewy texture

2. Do not crumble easily and are not sticky

3. In some products such as kerupuk gendar, borax can also cause a bitter taste.

‘The types of foods frequently found to contain borax include bakso, fresh noodles, siomay, lontong, and kerupuk gendar. Long-term consumption of borax poses health risks,’ BPOM said.

BPOM also highlights the use of textile dyes in foods, such as Rhodamin B. This substance is normally used as a synthetic dye in the paper and textile industries, but is sometimes misused in foods.

Signs that Rhodamin B is in foods include a very bright pink colour that glows and uneven colouring or specks of colour. This substance is often found in kerupuk, market snacks such as kue lapis, and even drinks.

There is also Methanyl Yellow, a textile dye sometimes used in foods such as yellow tofu or yellow crackers. Foods containing this substance typically have a very bright yellow colour and appear to glow with an uneven hue.

According to BPOM, long-term consumption of these hazardous substances may trigger a range of health issues, from digestive problems to cancer risks.

‘Understand the risks, note the signs, and choose foods with clear safety assurances. Let us be smart consumers for long-term health,’ BPOM concluded.