FSSAI warns fruit traders to ensure compliance with prohibition of calcium carbide in fruit ripening

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has warned traders, fruit handlers, and Food Business Operators (FBOs) to strictly comply with the ban on calcium carbide for artificial fruit ripening, especially during mango season. FSSAI urges State/UT Food Safety Departments to enforce this ban rigorously and take action against violators under the FSS Act, 2006.

Calcium carbide, commonly used to ripen fruits like mangoes, emits harmful acetylene gas containing arsenic and phosphorus, posing health risks. Its use is prohibited under Regulation 2.3.5 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011.

FSSAI has approved ethylene gas as a safer alternative for fruit ripening. Ethylene, a natural fruit hormone, regulates ripening by controlling biochemical activities. Ethephon 39% SL is approved by the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIB & RC) for uniform fruit ripening. FSSAI has issued comprehensive guidance on artificial fruit ripening using ethylene gas. Consumers spotting unauthorized practices should report them to State Commissioners of Food Safety for action.