The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a strong directive to all States and Union Territories to ramp up inspections and launch special enforcement drives targeting the illegal use of banned ripening agents and synthetic coatings on fruits.
In a press release, the FSSAI emphasized the urgent need to monitor fruit markets and wholesale mandis for the use of non-permitted chemicals like calcium carbide, also known locally as “masala”. The chemical is banned under the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011, due to its serious health hazards, including mouth ulcers, gastric irritation, and potential carcinogenic effects.
Enforcement Drives and Legal Action
To crack down on this unsafe practice, the FSSAI has instructed State Food Safety Commissioners and Regional Directors to:
- Inspect storage facilities and go-downs, especially where there is suspicion of illegal ripening.
- Treat the presence of calcium carbide near fruit consignments as circumstantial evidence against Food Business Operators (FBOs).
- Take prosecution action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, for any violations.
Warning Against Unsafe Use of Ethephon
The FSSAI also flagged unsafe usage of ethephon, a chemical used to generate ethylene gas for ripening bananas and other fruits. Some FBOs have been found dipping fruits directly into the chemical, which is not allowed.
To guide stakeholders, the FSSAI has released a detailed guidance document titled “Artificial Ripening of Fruits – Ethylene Gas: A Safe Fruit Ripener”, which outlines:
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for using ethylene gas safely
- Recommended chamber conditions and post-treatment handling
- Safety protocols and restrictions on chemical use
📄 Read the full guidance document here: FSSAI Guidance Note
Public and FBOs Urged to Stay Vigilant
FSSAI reiterated that violators will face strict penalties and urged all stakeholders—from food vendors to consumers—to ensure that only safe and legally compliant fruits are brought to market.
This renewed effort aims to protect public health and uphold food quality standards, ensuring that consumers across India can trust the fruits they buy.
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