With the onset of summer season the risk of markets being flooded with artificially ripened fruits especially Mangoes, Papaya and Bananas increases.
In a move to curb this malpractice by fruit vendors, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken a necessary step by ordering strict enforcement across states and UTs to intensify action against illegal fruit ripening agents, reiterating that the use of calcium carbide for artificial ripening of fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and papayas is strictly prohibited.
The issue persists because many people in the fruit trade believe that aforesaid fruits cannot be ripened naturally and use of chemicals is unavoidable. Given this, the government in J&K should come up with a remedy by starting a comprehensive awareness campaign to educate the stakeholders about the methods to ripen fruits safely without harmful chemicals.
It is good that the FSSAI has directed all Commissioners of Food Safety in States and Union Territories, along with Regional Directors, to increase monitoring of fruit markets and storage facilities. The directive specifically targets the use of calcium carbide, which is frequently used by traders to accelerate the ripening process. As attractive-looking mangoes have already arrived at the fruit vendors’ shelves, it becomes necessary for the people to remain watchful while purchasing fruits.
It is pertinent to mention that the use of calcium carbide is prohibited under Regulation 2.3.5 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011, for use as artificial ripening agent in fruits as it poses serious health risks.
The regulatory body has also raised concerns regarding the misuse of Ethephon solutions. While ethylene gas is often used as a ripening agent under specific safety protocols, certain Food Business Operators are dipping fruits directly into chemical solutions, which is a violation of safety standards. Although washing the fruit can be helpful, it only removes partial content of chemicals leaving much of the residue behind, which is hazardous.
Another crucial aspect that warrants immediate attention is the need for stronger on-ground enforcement and accountability mechanisms. Mere advisories and directives, though well-intentioned, often fail to translate into tangible results without strict inspections and penal action against violators. Regular surprise checks at fruit mandis, cold storage units, and transportation hubs must be institutionalised to deter unscrupulous traders. Additionally, empowering local bodies and municipal authorities with adequate resources and training can significantly enhance monitoring at the grassroots level. Public participation is equally vital—consumers should be encouraged to report suspicious practices through helplines and digital platforms. Only through a combined effort of vigilant authorities and aware citizens can this hazardous practice be effectively curbed, ensuring that the fruits reaching people’s homes are not only appealing in appearance but also safe for consumption.
Despite the concerned authority declaring the use of calcium carbide for ripening fruits as illegal the practice remains widespread and therefore to ensure good health the people should choose fruits carefully when buying them.
