India’s food safety authority, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, has issued a strong warning against the use of banned chemicals for artificially ripening fruits like mangoes, bananas, and papayas. The concern centres around calcium carbide, a substance that is illegal due to serious health risks.
While regulated use of ethylene gas is allowed for safe ripening, calcium carbide releases acetylene gas and can leave behind toxic residues such as arsenic and phosphorus. Consuming such fruits may lead to symptoms like dizziness, vomiting, throat irritation, and potential long-term health issues.
Why the Crackdown Matters
Authorities have intensified inspections across markets and storage facilities to prevent the use of harmful ripening agents. The goal is to ensure that fruits reaching consumers are safe and free from toxic exposure.
How to Spot Artificially Ripened Fruits
Unnatural Uniform Colour
Fruits that appear overly bright and evenly coloured may be artificially ripened. Naturally ripened fruits usually have slight variations in colour and minor imperfections. A greyish or powdery coating can also be a warning sign.
Strange Texture and Skin Marks
Watch for blackened or burnt-looking spots, especially near the stem. Fruits that feel soft outside but remain hard inside are suspicious. For example, bananas with green stems but yellow skin or papayas that turn mushy too quickly may indicate chemical ripening.
Lack of Natural Aroma and Taste
Naturally ripened fruits have a pleasant, sweet fragrance. Artificial ones may smell faintly chemical or have little to no aroma. When cut, they can taste bland, bitter, or lack juiciness.
Tips to Buy Safer Fruits
Choose fruits with natural colour variations rather than perfect-looking ones. Buy from trusted vendors or organic outlets, and avoid fruits that ripen unusually fast after purchase. Always wash thoroughly and peel before eating to reduce potential contamination.
Being mindful while buying fruits can significantly reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and help ensure better health for you and your family.