Archive · 20 May 2025
FSSAI Cracks Down on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices
The food safety authority in India, FSSAI, is making sure fruits are ripened safely.
They're cracking down on using harmful chemicals like calcium carbide to ripen fruits faster because it can make people sick.
They're also checking how ethephon is used.
FSSAI has provided guidelines for using ethylene gas, a safe way to ripen fruits.
If businesses break these rules, they will be penalized to keep the food safe for everyone.
FSSAI is directing states to intensify inspections to curb the illegal use of ripening agents.
The focus is on calcium carbide ('masala') and improper use of ethephon.
Calcium carbide use is prohibited due to health risks like mouth ulcers and carcinogenic properties.
FSSAI released a guidance document on safe ethylene gas use for fruit ripening.
Violations of guidelines will result in strict penal action against food business operators.
- Who
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), States, Union Territories, and Food Business Operators.
- What
- FSSAI is cracking down on the illegal use of non-permitted fruit ripening agents and synthetic coatings.
- When
- May 20, 2025, with ongoing enforcement.
- Where
- India, focusing on fruit markets and storage units.
- Why
- To ensure food safety and protect consumers from health risks associated with harmful ripening practices.
FSSAI
Food Business Operators
Impact of Regulations
FSSAI
The FSSAI's strict regulations and enforcement actions may lead to increased operational costs and potential disruptions for fruit businesses.
Food Business Operators
Compliance with FSSAI guidelines ensures the safety and quality of fruits, thereby benefiting both consumers and the long-term sustainability of the fruit industry.
- Regulatory Body
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
- Action
- Crackdown on illegal fruit ripening practices
- Prohibited Substances
- Calcium carbide, ethephon (misuse)
- Guidelines
- Artificial Ripening of Fruits - Ethylene Gas: A Safe Fruit Ripener
- Health Risks
- Mouth ulcers, gastric irritation, carcinogenic properties (calcium carbide)
- Enforcement
- Intensified inspections, enforcement drives, and potential prosecution