FSSAI Directs State Food Commissioners to Inspect Fruit Markets and Godowns for Prohibited Artificial Ripening Agents
FSSAI Takes Measures to Curb Use of Artificial Ripening Agents in Fruits
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a letter to state food commissioners, urging them to intensify inspections in fruit markets and godowns to prevent the use of prohibited artificial ripening agents like calcium carbide. This move comes in response to concerns over the health risks associated with the use of these agents.
According to FSSAI, the use of calcium carbide, commonly referred to as "masala," is strictly prohibited under its Regulations for use as artificial ripening agents in fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and papayas. The substance poses serious health risks, including difficulty in swallowing, vomiting, and skin ulcers.
FSSAI has also observed that some Food Business Operators (FBOs) are engaging in the practice of dipping fruits in ethylene solution for artificial ripening, particularly in bananas and other fruits. However, the regulator's Guidance Note on Artificial Ripening of Fruits Ethylene Gas - A Safe Fruit Ripener strictly prohibits direct contact between fruits/vegetables and ethylene in powder or liquid form.
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To combat the use of unauthorized ripening agents, FSSAI has directed all state food commissioners and Regional Directors to maintain strict vigilance over fruit markets, storage facilities, wholesalers, and distributors, particularly those storing seasonal fruits. The regulator has also asked states to undertake special enforcement drives to curb the illegal use of calcium carbide or other non-permitted ripening agents, wax, and synthetic colors.
Key Enforcement Measures
| Enforced Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Special Enforcement Drives | States to undertake special enforcement drives to curb the illegal use of calcium carbide or other non-permitted ripening agents, wax, and synthetic colors. |
| Strip Paper Tests | Enforcement Officials to use strip paper tests to detect the presence of acetylene in godowns or ripening chambers for the artificial ripening of fruits. |
| Prosecution Against FBOs | The presence of calcium carbide on premises or alongside fruit crates to be treated as circumstantial evidence for initiating prosecution against FBOs. |
By implementing these measures, FSSAI aims to ensure the safe and healthy consumption of fruits in the country.
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