As summer arrives and mangoes flood the markets of Hyderabad, health authorities and police are issuing urgent warnings to consumers about the dangers of chemically ripened fruits. The beloved king of fruits has become a source of concern as unscrupulous traders use harmful chemicals to artificially ripen mangoes, putting public health at serious risk.
Driven by profit, some traders are using Calcium Carbide and other hazardous chemicals instead of allowing mangoes to ripen naturally. These artificially treated fruits may look attractive with their shiny, golden appearance on roadside stalls, but medical experts warn that purchasing them is essentially inviting illness into homes. Consumers are being urged to exercise extreme caution and verify the authenticity of produce before making any purchase, even those labeled as organic.
Medical experts have identified clear differences between naturally ripened and chemically treated mangoes. A naturally ripened mango typically does not have a perfectly uniform colour, while chemically ripened fruits appear bright yellow on the outside but remain raw and toxic on the inside. The consumption of such contaminated fruits can lead to immediate health problems including throat irritation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The long-term health consequences are even more alarming. Experts warn that regular consumption of chemically ripened mangoes may lead to severe complications such as nervous system damage and respiratory problems. These serious health risks have prompted authorities to take swift action against traders who endanger public safety for financial gain.
The Hyderabad City Police has adopted a stern stance against such traders who play with public health. The H-FAST unit is maintaining strict vigilance on the sale of adulterated mangoes across the city, and legal action is being initiated against those who violate food safety regulations. The police force has intensified monitoring at markets and roadside stalls to curb this dangerous practice.
Authorities are advising citizens to be cautious of mangoes that display certain warning signs. These include unnatural colour, a chemical odour, or a strange taste. If there are unusual spots on the skin or if the colour changes unexpectedly when washed with baking soda water, consumers should recognize that these fruits are harmful to health and avoid purchasing them.
The public is being encouraged not to be deceived by the outward appearance of fruits. Shiny, perfectly coloured mangoes may actually indicate chemical treatment rather than quality. Health officials recommend purchasing mangoes from trusted sources and checking for natural ripening indicators such as slight variations in colour and a natural fruity aroma without any chemical smell.
Citizens who have information regarding the sale of adulterated mangoes are urged to report it immediately to Dial 100 or contact the H-FAST helpline at 8712661212. The police department is relying on public cooperation to identify and take action against traders who continue to sell chemically ripened mangoes in violation of food safety standards.
