IDENTIFIKASI BORAKS DAN FORMALIN PADA BAKSO DI PASAR TRADISIONAL ULAWENG

Universitas Muhammadiyah Bone, Kabupaten Bone, Indonesia

Abstract

This study aimed to identify borax and formalin in meatballs sold at the traditional market in Ulaweng District, Bone Regency, and compare initial and laboratory test results. This exploratory descriptive study was conducted from June to July 2026. Meatballs were purchased from six purposively selected vendors on 25 June, 2 July, 9 July, and 16 July, yielding 24 purchased samples. Each sample underwent initial testing on its purchase date without prior storage. Rapid test kits for borax and formalin were used, with boric acid and formaldehyde as positive control materials. The same six samples from the final purchase on 16 July underwent further testing at the Maros Veterinary Center. Data were analyzed descriptively, with paired comparisons restricted to these six samples. All 24 initial results were negative for borax and positive for formalin, while all six laboratory results were negative for both parameters. Agreement among paired samples was 100% for borax and 0% for formalin. Formalin discordance does not establish false-positive results because both stages used qualitative kits without a validated reference method. Findings do not represent all Ulaweng vendors. Documenting sample handling and strengthening testing quality assurance are needed to clarify the discordance.