Hyderabad Police Seize 200 kg of Artificially Ripened Mangoes in Major Food Safety Crackdown
In a significant enforcement action highlighting food safety concerns, Hyderabad police have confiscated approximately 200 kilograms of artificially ripened mangoes. The seizure, which also included 25 loose sachets of "Diamond Ripe – Ethylene Ripener," underscores ongoing issues with adulteration in the fruit market. Authorities reported that the accused was using six sachets per 20 kg tray, exceeding the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) limit of five sachets for the same quantity. A case has been registered under sections related to food adulteration, cheating, and endangering public health, emphasizing the legal repercussions of such violations.
FSSAI's Comprehensive Guidelines on Artificial Fruit Ripening
The FSSAI has established clear regulations to ensure consumer safety in fruit ripening practices. Here are the key guidelines that every market player and consumer should be aware of:
- Ban on Carbide and Acetylene Gases: The use of carbide gas or acetylene gas for artificial ripening is strictly prohibited under the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011, due to their potential health hazards.
- Ethylene Gas Limits: Ethylene gas is permitted for artificial ripening at a concentration not exceeding 100 ppm (100µl/L), as it mimics the natural ripening process.
- Natural Role of Ethylene: Ethylene is a hormone produced naturally within fruits to stimulate ripening, and when used externally within limits, it does not pose health risks to consumers.
- Approved Sources: External application of ethylene gas from sources like cylinders, compressed gas, ethanol, or ethephon is allowed to trigger ripening, but direct contact with fruits is not permitted.
- Consumer Advisory: Purchasing fruits from known sellers or reputed stores that declare no use of harmful chemicals is recommended for safety.
8 Smart and Effective Ways to Check Mango Purity at Home
To protect yourself from artificially ripened mangoes, here are eight practical methods to assess purity before buying:
- Inspect Skin Color: Artificially ripened mangoes often display a uniform, overly yellow or orange hue with a slight shine, unlike the varied tones of natural ones.
- Smell the Mango: Naturally ripened mangoes emit a sweet, fruity aroma, while artificially treated ones may have a chemical or off odor.
- Check Firmness: Artificially ripened mangoes tend to feel softer or mushier due to chemical breakdown of cell walls, whereas natural ones are firmer.
- Look for External Damage: Avoid mangoes with bruises or spots, as these can indicate chemical injection; natural mangoes typically have fewer blemishes.
- Soaking Method: Place mangoes in water; if they sink, they are likely naturally ripened, but if they float, they may be artificially harvested.
- Baking Soda Test: Soak mangoes in water with baking soda for 15-20 minutes. A color change after washing suggests chemical treatment or polishing.
- Conduct a Taste Test: Artificially ripened mangoes may taste bland or have an unpleasant aftertaste, so sample a small piece if possible.
- Match Stick Test (Use with Caution): As per the Alphonso Mango website, lighting a match near mangoes may cause sparks if chemically treated, but this risky method should only be tried with adult supervision and precautions.
Mangoes, celebrated as the "king of fruits" for their rich taste and nutritional value, are a summer staple across India and globally. The high demand often leads to unethical practices like artificial ripening, making consumer vigilance crucial. By adhering to FSSAI guidelines and employing these home tests, you can enjoy safe, pure mangoes while supporting food safety standards. Always prioritize buying from trusted sources to minimize health risks associated with adulterated fruits.
