Awareness programme conducted for fruit vendors in Chennai

CHENNAI: Anticipating an increase in artificial ripening of fruits as summer peaks, Tamil Nadu's food safety department on Wednesday held an awareness programme for fruits vendors' associations and retailers.

At the event held in the district collectorate here, senior health officials spoke about the ill effects of calcium carbide - the most commonly used chemical for speeding up the ripening process. They warned retailers and middlemen of strict action in the coming days as the department will intensify the drive.

In March, food safety officials seized a total of 4,000kg of artificially ripened fruits from the wholesale market in Koyambedu, including mangoes, sapotta and papaya. They also seized 75kg of calcium carbide stones.

Food safety officials said during the inspection, many of the vendors claimed that they were in the dark about the harmful effects of calcium carbide, known to damage the kidney and liver and cause ulcers and gastric problems.

"The practice is so rampant that many still don't know the dangers of calcium carbide, even if taken in moderate measures," said R Kathiravan, designated officer of the food safety and drug administration department, Chennai district.

Some vendors also resort to burning kerosene stove or incense sticks in closed rooms to quicken the ripening process. Experts say these methods give the mangoes a bright yellow and have a longer shelf life but are dangerous to eat.

Calcium carbide is banned under Section 44A of the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, but is widely used by fruit merchants. The chemical in solid form is kept wrapped in paper among the fruits. It reacts with water to form acetylene, which catalyses the ripening process.

Food safety officials said if vendors were caught selling artificially ripened fruits, they would be booked under Section 57 of the Food Safety and Standard Act, 2006, which could invite a fine of up to Rs 10 lakh.

The public can also inform the department on shops selling artificially ripened fruits. Phone: 044-23813095 and email dofssache@gmail.com.