Authorities Urge States to Enforce Action Against Unauthorized Fruit Ripening Methods and Artificial Coverings for Public Protection
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a directive on May 20, 2025, to tighten inspections and launch special enforcement drives against the illegal use of harmful fruit ripening agents and synthetic coloring.
This move comes in response to growing concerns about the widespread use of non-permitted substances in fruit markets and mandis, which pose serious health risks to consumers. One such substance is calcium carbide, a banned substance often referred to as 'masala.'
Calcium carbide, when used in fruit ripening, can lead to hazardous health issues such as mouth ulcers, gastric irritation, and even cancer. The presence of calcium carbide in storage areas, even if not directly applied to fruits, will be considered strong circumstantial evidence and may lead to strict legal action under the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006.
Special attention is being given to the use of calcium carbide. The FSSAI has made it clear that any violations of these guidelines will result in strict penalties. To ensure food safety and prevent the use of harmful substances in food products, the FSSAI is taking active steps.
The FSSAI has shared a detailed document titled "Artificial Ripening of Fruits - Ethylene Gas: A Safe Fruit Ripener." This guideline, published by the Central Institute of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology (CIPHET), outlines the safe use of ethylene gas through approved methods.
The misuse of ethephon solution for ripening fruits like bananas is another issue that the FSSAI is addressing. The document flags the misuse of ethephon solution as a violation of safety norms.
The FSSAI's enforcement drives are not just about punishing violators but also about educating food business operators and consumers. The authority encourages everyone to remain vigilant.
To monitor the situation, FSSAI has asked Commissioners of Food Safety and its Regional Directors to maintain a strict watch over storage units and marketplaces where illegal ripening practices may be taking place.
The FSSAI's efforts are part of a larger commitment to ensuring the safety of food products in India. With the ban on calcium carbide under the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011, only safely ripened, legally compliant fruits should reach the markets.
The FSSAI is determined to make India's food markets safe and healthy for all. It urges everyone to support this initiative and contribute to a healthier nation.
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