The Economic Times

Mangoes, bananas, papayas under watch: FSSAI crackdown begins over illegal 'masala' use for ripening; What Indias top food regulator is warning

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has issued a fresh directive to states to intensify action against the illegal use of artificial fruit ripening agents, especially banning calcium carbide for fruits like mangoes, bananas, and papayas due to serious health risks. The authority reiterated that unsafe practices, including misuse of chemicals like ethephon, will face strict enforcement, with increased inspections across markets and storage facilities. FSSAI emphasised that only regulated use of ethylene gas is permitted, while warning that violations could lead to prosecution, signalling a strong nationwide crackdown to ensure safer fruits for consumers.