TV
In the bustling markets of Odisha, luscious fruits like mangoes could harbour a hidden menace, posing potential health risks due to a harmful ripening process.
While the ripened mangoes appear enticing and flavourful, these fruits may be subjected to unscrupulous practices by traders using Calcium Carbide, an agent associated with severe health implications, including cancer.
Harmful Effects of Calcium Carbide
Calcium Carbide is a substance often used illegally to accelerate the artificial ripening of fruits, placing profit above consumer safety.
Concerns have been raised by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), which has called for stringent measures against vendors using such hazardous techniques.
Official guidelines stipulate that only Ethylene gas is safe and authorised for the artificial ripening of fruits. Despite this, the illegal use of Calcium Carbide persists due to its rapid effects, though it is linked to a range of health issues. These include not only cancer but also mouth ulcers, gastric problems, exhaustion, and nausea.
Rising Demand During Festive Seasons
As temperature peaks and festivals like Sabitri approach, the demand for fruits such as mangoes, bananas, lychees, and watermelons surges. During these times, it becomes particularly important for consumers to be cautious and ensure they purchase fruits from trustworthy vendors to avoid exposure to chemically treated produce.
"As the Sabitri festival is ahead, there has been huge demand for different kinds of fruits in the market. However, most of the vendors use illegal chemicals to ripen the fruits. These fruits are very dangerous for our health," said health expert Dr Jayant Panda.
"It's very hard to find naturally ripened fruits in towns. The traders are using Calcium Carbide to ripen the fruit artificially, and we are forced to buy and consume these fruits," said Madhusmita Samal, a consumer.
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"Most of the fruits are coming to the Odisha market from Andhra Pradesh. We have found that those traders are using Calcium Carbide to ripen the fruits," said Prabhakar Khuntia, a fruit vendor.
Meanwhile, the FSSAI has issued warnings to all states, urging strict actions against traders using Calcium Carbide for fruit ripening. Public awareness and vigilance remain crucial in safeguarding health.
