Jun 11, 2018
10 tonnes of artificially ripened mangoes seized in Dindigul
Madurai: Food safety officials from Dindigul district seized 10 tonnes of artificially ripened mangoes and destroyed them. The mangoes worth Rs 5 lakh were found during the raids conducted at various godowns around Palani.
The surprise raid was conducted late on Saturday night at Ayakudi village and its surroundings, based on a complaint. Officials said that at least eight godowns were found to ripen mangoes using carbide stones and spraying chemicals.
The raid was conducted by a team lead by the designated officer for food safety, Dindigul district, Natarajan. The official also warned other traders in the locality with severe action, if they continue this illegal practice. The officials said that mangoes are produced in a large-scale in and around Palani and the variety of mangoes grown here are sent to various cities.
Officials said that common symptoms of artificially ripened mangoes were stomach upset, ulcer and vomiting. Those who are allergic to chemicals may get skin problems like rashes and itching. They also warned that in rare cases, it can also cause cancer. They advised public to be careful while choosing mangoes. One can identify an artificially ripened mango once it is sliced. When the outer surface is ripened well compared to the inner part, it is an indication of artificial ripening, they said.
No, khaini not on ban wagon in Bihar
Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey on Sunday clarified that they have not written any letter to the Center to facilitate introducing a ban on khaini, consumption of which causes a number of serious ailments.
Pandey said they are against the consumption of gutkha and khaini, found to be the major causes of mouth cancer, but have not asked the Centre for its prohibition.
The Health Minister further appealed to the people of the state to stop the consumption of gutkha and khaini.
According to a recent media report, the state government wrote to the Union Health Ministry, urging it to notify khaini as a food product. Upon notification, the state government can ban the product on health grounds.
According to Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Act, any food product which has the presence of tobacco and nicotine in it, has to be banned.
Two years earlier, the Bihar government had banned the sale and consumption of liquor in the state.
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