Analisis Kandungan Rhodamin B dan Formalin pada Gula Merah serta Perilaku Penjual di Pasar Kampung Lalang Medan Sunggal

Abstract

Food safety is one of the crucial issues in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to public health and well-being. The use of hazardous chemicals such as formalin and Rhodamine B in food products remains a serious concern, especially in palm sugar which is widely sold in traditional markets and is often used in various food processing activities. This study aimed to analyze the content of formalin and Rhodamine B in palm sugar and to assess the behavior of palm sugar sellers at Kampung Lalang Market, Medan Sunggal. The research used a descriptive survey method with a cross-sectional approach. Data were collected through laboratory testing of palm sugar samples obtained from traders and structured interviews with ten sellers to assess their level of knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding food safety. The results showed that all palm sugar samples were free from formalin (0%) and Rhodamine B (0%), thereby meeting food safety requirements according to existing regulations. Based on the interviews, most sellers had a fair attitude (80%), moderate knowledge (60%), and poor practice (40%) in food safety. The conclusion indicates that palm sugar is safe from formalin and Rhodamine B contamination at Kampung Lalang Market, Medan Sunggal. The knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the sellers can be improved through regular socialization and counseling conducted by the Medan City Government, and the community is expected to be more careful in selecting safe and high-quality food products.