<![CDATA[Formalin is a chemical substance prohibited for use as a food additive because it may pose serious health risks, yet wet noodles containing formalin are still found in several traditional markets in Palembang City according to reports from the Palembang Food and Drug Control Center (BBPOM). This study aimed to determine traders' knowledge regarding formalin content in wet noodles sold at traditional markets in Palembang City in 2026. This descriptive study used an observational approach involving all 45 wet noodle traders in Palembang City's traditional markets, selected through total sampling. Data on traders' knowledge were collected through questionnaire-based interviews, while formalin content was examined using a Rapid Test Kit. Data were analyzed univariately and presented as frequency distributions. Results showed that most traders (48.9%) had a moderate level of knowledge, followed by good (26.7%) and poor (24.4%) categories. Formalin testing revealed that 8 samples (17.8%) were positive and 37 samples (82.2%) were negative. Organoleptic testing showed that most samples had a non-pungent odor (88.9%), a pale-yellow color (68.9%), and a non-chewy texture (60%). In conclusion, although most traders possess a moderate level of knowledge, formalin was still detected in several samples, indicating that continuous education and regular food safety monitoring remain necessary.]]>
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