FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices

In a proactive step to ensure food safety, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed all states and Union Territories to intensify monitoring and enforcement against the use of banned ripening agents like calcium carbide. This directive, aimed primarily at curbing unsafe practices in fruit markets and storage facilities, comes in light of rising concerns over the harmful effects of chemically ripened mangoes on public health.

Why in News?

The FSSAI issued a nationwide directive on May 21, 2025, asking food safety commissioners and regional directors to conduct special enforcement drives to prevent the use of prohibited chemicals, especially calcium carbide, in ripening fruits like mangoes.

Objective of the Directive

• Ensure the sale of naturally ripened fruits.
• Protect consumers from exposure to toxic and carcinogenic chemicals.
• Strengthen enforcement at the state and regional level to monitor fruit markets and storage facilities.

Calcium Carbide: The Key Concern

• Commonly used to artificially ripen fruits, especially mangoes.
• Highly hazardous, as it may contain traces of arsenic and phosphorus.
• Known to cause mouth ulcers, neurological symptoms, and has carcinogenic properties.

FSSAI’s Key Directives

• Intensify inspections in mandis, fruit markets, and cold storages.
• Conduct awareness campaigns for farmers, traders, and consumers.
• Encourage use of ethylene gas, a safer alternative, under controlled conditions.
• Take legal action against violators under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Background

• Artificial ripening with calcium carbide has been a recurring problem, especially during mango season.
• FSSAI has issued several advisories in the past, but enforcement remains inconsistent across states.

Significance

• A critical move to ensure food safety and public health.
• Promotes organic and natural food handling practices.
• Enhances consumer confidence in food quality.