Paradip, Aug. 31: The dry fish units here that have been found using chemical substances for preserving the produce would be shut down.

The units, which are in commercial operation, have been issued orders to meet the standard hygiene specifications. Those found at fault would be shut down and their licence would be cancelled, said a marine fisheries wing official.

Manufacturing dry fish is a flourishing trade in Paradip though its growth continues to remain unscientific. The state government is trying to streamline the production through the cluster development programme.

Earlier, the dry fish-makers used toxic preservatives that are injurious to human health.

After experts found that intake of chemically processed dry fish would have extremely adverse affect, the department renewed its drive to take penal action against the guilty, said assistant director of fisheries (marine) Biraja Prasanna Mohapatra.

Notices have been served to producers and traders of dry fish, fishermen's co-operative bodies and fish trawler operators, asking them to stop use of the chemicals. Such practice is an offence under the Orissa Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1982.

The traders had earlier been found guilty of using a preservative for long durability of the produce.

Instead of using salt as a natural preservative, the produce is found to be chemically processed.