Hyderabad: As the mango season begins, the government is taking strict action against fruit vendors who use harmful chemicals like calcium carbide to ripen mangoes. To ensure public safety, officials are promoting safer alternatives such as Ethephon, a chemical that helps ripen fruits without harmful effects.
The Health Department’s food safety wing has launched an awareness campaign to educate vendors and the public about the dangers of using calcium carbide. This chemical can cause serious health issues, including dizziness, skin irritation, vomiting, weakness, and even neurological problems. It can also lead to hormonal imbalances and other long-term health risks.
Experts explain that calcium carbide reacts with moisture to produce acetylene gas, which makes fruits ripen faster. However, this method doesn’t give the same taste or nutrition as naturally ripened fruits. In addition, this gas and the chemical residues can be toxic and may cause respiratory problems, skin ulcers, and other serious conditions.
Health Minister C Damodar Raja Narsimha has urged fruit sellers to use safe and natural methods for ripening mangoes. He reminded everyone that using calcium carbide is illegal under the Food Safety and Standards Act. He warned that anyone caught using it will face strict punishment, including fines and legal action.
To ensure compliance, food safety officers will carry out regular checks in fruit markets and storage areas. The public can also report vendors using harmful ripening methods by calling 9100105795.
The government is recommending the use of Ethephon as a safe alternative. Just one 500 mg sachet of Ethephon is enough for 10 kilograms of fruit. Ethephon works by releasing ethylene, a natural plant hormone that helps fruits ripen in a safe and healthy way. This method improves fruit color and ensures better taste and nutrition.
