The food safety department allows usage of ethylene gas in very low quantity for ripening mangoes. But the use of ethylene powder is not allowed as it is multiple times stronger than gas.
Kochi: Mangoes are the major attraction in every market during summer seasons. Different varieties of mangoes are arranged in a way to lure buyers. But most of them are found to be less sweet and fragrant.
It was later discovered that raw mangoes are artificially ripened using calcium carbide. Amid the inspection and action against those who use the chemical progressing, the presence of a new chemical ‘ethylene’ has been found.
In an examination jointly conducted by the food safety department authorities and market management committee, over four tons of mango contaminated with ethylene powder was seized from Koyambedu market. The chemical is used to ripen raw mangoes. Koyambedu market is a major source of fruits and vegetables in South India.
The food safety department allows usage of ethylene gas in very low quantity for ripening mangoes. But the use of ethylene powder is not allowed as it is multiple times stronger than gas. The food safety department has warned that continuous use of ethylene will lead to serious health hazards.
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