12 May,2026 07:41 AM IST | Mumbai | Abhitash Singh
Officials said mango samples have been collected from traders and roadside vendors for laboratory testing. Representation Pic/Satej Shinde
With mango season reaching its peak and markets flooded with Alphonso and other popular varieties, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched a consumer awareness drive warning people against chemically ripened mangoes being sold across Mumbai markets.
After conducting action at APMC market over the alleged use of chemicals for ripening mangoes, the FDA has now expanded surprise inspections to several parts of the city, including Malad, Borivali, Kandivali, Dongri and Girgaon. Officials said mango samples have been collected from traders and roadside vendors for laboratory testing.
FDA officials said many consumers end up purchasing chemically treated fruits because they are attracted to bright colours and glossy appearances without checking whether the fruit has naturally ripened.
The department has appealed to citizens to buy mangoes from authorised sellers and avoid purchasing fruits that appear artificially ripened. More inspections and enforcement action are expected in the coming days as the mango season continues.
Joint Commissioner of Food Mahesh Chaudhari told mid-day that consumers should not buy mangoes merely because they look visually attractive.
"Consumers must carefully examine mangoes before purchasing them. Fruits that appear unnaturally bright, excessively shiny or uniformly yellow should raise suspicion. Naturally ripened mangoes generally do not have perfectly even colouring," he said.
According to FDA officials, naturally ripened mangoes usually carry a sweet aroma and soften gradually. In contrast, chemically treated fruits may appear ripe from the outside while remaining hard or raw inside.
>> Buy mangoes from authorised vendors whenever possible
>> Avoid fruits that look perfectly coloured or overly glossy
>> Wash mangoes thoroughly before consumption
>> Keep raw mangoes at home for natural ripening
>> Report suspicious sale of chemically ripened fruits to FDA authorities
Officials also warned people to closely observe the stem area before buying mangoes. Powder-like residue, unusual patches or chemical-like marks near the stem could indicate exposure to ripening agents during storage or transportation.
The FDA has reiterated that the use of calcium carbide for artificial ripening remains banned under food safety regulations due to potential health risks. Officials, however, clarified that controlled use of ethylene gas under prescribed standards is legally permitted for ripening fruits.
Sources in the department said traders are often under pressure to meet heavy seasonal demand, leading to suspected misuse of ripening agents for faster turnover.
Another major concern flagged by officials is the excessive polishing or artificial shine seen on some mangoes sold in markets.
"Mangoes should be selected based on smell, texture and natural ripening characteristics," an FDA official said.
>> Powder-like residue near the stem
>> Pale, raw or hard pulp after cutting
>> Strange taste or unusual aftertaste
>> Black spots or burn-like marks on the skin
>> Unnaturally bright or uniform yellow
>> Excessively shiny or have polished-looking skin
>> Lack of natural fruity aroma
>> Hard in texture despite appearing ripe
>> Pale, raw or hard pulp after cutting
>> Strange taste or unusual aftertaste
>> Black spots or burn-like marks on the skin
Rs 100 to Rs 200
Cost per kilo of chemically ripened mangoes
Rs 1250 to Rs 2000
Price range for dozen mangoes in Mumbai
