Food Safety Deptt issues advisory on artificial ripening of fruits

Srinagar, May 29: The Food Wing of the Drug and Food Safety Department has issued an advisory on the safe artificial ripening of fruits and urged consumers to ensure safe consumption practices.

The advisory warns fruit business operators against the use of banned chemicals such as calcium carbide or acetylene gas—commonly referred to as “masala”—due to their potential health hazards. Instead, it recommends the controlled use of ethylene gas as a safer alternative for ripening.

According to the department, fruit ripening is a complex physiological, biochemical, and molecular process that makes fruit edible, palatable, and nutritious. While ripening can occur naturally, it may also be induced under controlled conditions. Based on ripening patterns, fruits are classified into two categories: non-climacteric and climacteric. Non-climacteric fruits, such as lemon, orange, grape, cherry, and pineapple, are typically harvested once fully ripened. In contrast, climacteric fruits like banana, guava, avocado, mango, apple, pear, apricot, peach, and tomato can be harvested at full maturity and ripened later during storage or transit.

The department noted that artificial ripening is commonly used to maintain fruit quality during transport, particularly for highly perishable fruits such as mango, papaya, and banana. These fruits are often harvested raw and ripened at the destination market to prevent spoilage.

To address concerns over the use of banned substances and the limited availability of alternative ripening agents, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), via notification dated August 23, 2016, permitted the use of ethylene gas for fruit ripening in India. This is subject to strict compliance with standard operating procedures by food business operators (FBOs). The advisory directed all FBOs involved in the storage, packaging, distribution, or sale of fruits and vegetables to follow these guidelines meticulously. Non-compliance will invite penal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Consumers have also been urged to stay vigilant and purchase fruits only from trusted sellers or reputed outlets that confirm their produce has not been ripened using harmful or banned chemicals. Additionally, fruits should be thoroughly washed with potable water before consumption to ensure safety and quality.