FSSAI Bans Artificial Fruit Ripeners
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has decided to tighten the noose around artificially ripening fruits with the use of the chemical calcium carbide popularly known as “Masala”.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has ordered all the states in India to carry out inspections, monitoring and sampling of fruits, to make sure chemicals to ensure fruits are not artificially ripened. FSSAI has also ordered the inspections of the levels of pesticides in vegetables.
The FSSAI has banned the use of calcium carbide popularly known as “Masala”. It is a chemical used for ripening of fruits such as Mango, Papaya, Banana and Melons.These chemicals are extremely harmful to health. They can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, burning sensation of the chest and abdomen. It can cause serious health problems in children and elderly people.Doctors say that use of chemical in fruits and vegetables can also lead to skin rashes and allergies.
Even though this chemical is banned, many fruit vendors still use them. The FSSAI has told the states to carry out awareness programmes at different markets and explain the side-effects of such chemicals.
