The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed states and Union Territories to intensify enforcement against the illegal use of chemical ripening agents, particularly calcium carbide, in fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and papayas.
Strict Ban on Calcium Carbide
Reiterating existing rules, the authority stated that calcium carbide—commonly referred to as “masala”—is strictly prohibited under the Food Safety and Standards regulations due to serious health risks.
Exposure to such chemicals can lead to health complications including difficulty in swallowing, vomiting, and skin irritation, making their use a major public health concern.
Nationwide Enforcement Drive
FSSAI has instructed Commissioners of Food Safety and Regional Directors to increase inspections across fruit markets, mandis, storage facilities, and distribution centres. The presence of banned substances like calcium carbide on-site will be treated as grounds for immediate legal action.
Authorities have been asked to maintain strict vigilance, especially during the peak season for fruits when the use of artificial ripening agents tends to rise.
Misuse of Ethephon and Ethylene
The regulator also flagged concerns over the misuse of ethephon solutions. While ethylene gas is considered a safe ripening agent when used under controlled conditions, direct contact of fruits with chemical solutions is strictly prohibited.
FSSAI clarified that dipping fruits in such substances violates safety norms and can pose risks to consumers.
Detection and Legal Action
Enforcement teams have been authorised to use strip paper tests to detect acetylene gas in storage areas and ripening chambers. Additionally, any use of unauthorized wax or synthetic colours on fruits will also attract action.
Officials stated that the presence of banned chemicals alongside fruit stocks could serve as circumstantial evidence for prosecution under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Consumer Safety in Focus
The crackdown aims to ensure that consumers receive safe and naturally ripened fruits, while discouraging unsafe practices adopted to speed up the ripening process.
FSSAI’s latest directive underscores its commitment to strengthening food safety standards and protecting public health across the country.
