17 April,2026 01:47 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Traders face action for using banned chemicals on fruits. Representational Image
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed states and Union Territories to step up action against the use of illegal chemicals for ripening fruits. The move comes amid concerns over the continued use of harmful substances like calcium carbide in markets.
In a post on X, FSSAI reiterated that the use of calcium carbide, commonly known as "masala", is strictly banned for ripening fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and papayas.
The authority warned that this chemical can cause serious health issues, including difficulty in swallowing, vomiting, and skin ulcers. It is prohibited under the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011.
To enforce the ban, FSSAI has asked all Commissioners of Food Safety and Regional Directors to increase inspections at fruit markets, mandis, storage facilities, and distribution centres.
Special drives will be conducted, especially during the peak season of fruits, to ensure that traders are not using banned substances. Officials have also been told that the presence of calcium carbide near fruit stocks can be treated as evidence for legal action against food business operators.
Enforcement teams can also use strip paper tests to detect acetylene gas in storage areas and ripening chambers. In addition, FSSAI warned against the use of synthetic colours and wax on fresh produce, which can also pose health risks.
The authority also raised concerns about the misuse of ethephon solutions. While ethylene gas is allowed as a safe ripening agent under controlled conditions, some traders are directly dipping fruits in chemical solutions, which is unsafe and not permitted.
FSSAI guidelines clearly state that fruits and vegetables should not come in direct contact with ethylene in liquid or powder form.
The crackdown aims to ensure that fruits reaching consumers are safe and free from harmful chemicals. FSSAI has urged strict vigilance across the supply chain to prevent unsafe practices and protect public health.
