FSSAI Issues Warning on Unsafe Fruit Ripening Practices, Urges Compliance with Regulations

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a stern warning to fruit traders and handlers, urging strict adherence to regulations prohibiting the use of calcium carbide for artificial fruit ripening. Particularly emphasized during the mango season, FSSAI has directed Food Business Operators (FBOs) utilizing ripening chambers to comply strictly with the ban on calcium carbide.

Calcium carbide, commonly employed for hastening the ripening of fruits such as mangoes, emits acetylene gas containing harmful traces of arsenic and phosphorus, known colloquially as ‘Masala’. Exposure to these substances can lead to severe health complications including dizziness, nausea, weakness, and skin ulcers. Moreover, acetylene gas poses risks to handlers. Concerns also arise regarding the potential residue of arsenic and phosphorus on fruits following its application.

In accordance with Regulation 2.3.5 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011, the use of calcium carbide for fruit ripening is strictly prohibited. The regulation explicitly states that fruits artificially ripened with acetylene gas shall not be sold or offered for sale.

Acknowledging the prevalence of banned calcium carbide usage, FSSAI has endorsed ethylene gas as a safer alternative for fruit ripening in India. Ethylene gas, a naturally occurring hormone in fruits, facilitates the ripening process without posing health hazards. The Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIB & RC) have approved Ethephon 39% SL for the uniform ripening of mangoes and other fruits.

To assist Food Business Operators in adopting safe ripening practices, FSSAI has published a comprehensive guidance document titled “Artificial Ripening of Fruits – Ethylene gas a safe fruit ripener.” This document provides a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) encompassing all aspects of fruit ripening using ethylene gas.

Consumers are urged to report any instances of calcium carbide usage or improper fruit ripening practices to the relevant State Commissioners of Food Safety for appropriate action. Details of Commissioners of Food Safety for all States/UTs can be found on the FSSAI website.

FSSAI emphasizes the importance of compliance with regulations to ensure the safety and quality of fruits available in the market, safeguarding public health against harmful practices.