In recent years, the discussion around food safety and the use of chemicals in agriculture has intensified, with particular attention being drawn to fruit ripening practices. The alarming trend of using banned substances like calcium carbide for artificially ripening fruits has raised significant public health concerns. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) have taken a stand, calling for a crackdown on illegal ripening agents in a bid to safeguard consumer health.
Calcium carbide, often referred to as ‘masala’, is a chemical that is commonly used for artificial ripening of fruits. Despite being banned under the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011, its usage persists in various markets across India. The health risks associated with calcium carbide are severe. Exposure to this substance has been linked to a multitude of health problems including mouth ulcers, gastric irritation, and potential carcinogenic effects. The ongoing use of edible fruits that have been ripened with calcium carbide not only compromises food safety but also poses a significant threat to public health.
On May 20, 2025, the FSSAI directed all states and union territories in India to intensify inspections and enforcement drives against the illegal use of non-permitted fruit ripening agents. The regulatory body emphasized the importance of maintaining strict vigilance over fruit markets and mandis. The FSSAI’s directives aim to strengthen the framework for monitoring and controlling the ripening processes in order to eliminate hazardous practices that endanger consumers.
Key actions outlined by the FSSAI include:
– Targeted Inspections: Food Safety Commissioners are tasked with inspecting storage units and godowns suspected of using harmful ripening agents.
– Legal Accountability: The presence of calcium carbide among fruits can lead to prosecution under the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006, holding Food Business Operators (FBOs) accountable for endangering public health.
– Guidelines for Safe Ripening: To counteract illegal practices, the FSSAI has released a guidance document detailing the proper use of ethylene gas for safe fruit ripening, ensuring compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Ethylene Gas as a Safe Alternative
Ethephon, a chemical that releases ethylene gas, has emerged as a safer alternative to calcium carbide when used correctly. The FSSAI has advised that ethylene should be applied solely under controlled conditions with strict adherence to safety protocols. Proper use of ethylene gas can facilitate safe ripening processes while avoiding the harmful effects associated with the use of calcium carbide.
-Raja Aditya
