In order to put a stop on ripening fruits artificially using calcium carbide, the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has started conducting surprise visits in the wholesale market where mangoes are being sold. “Last month, we met around 33 fruits traders from in and around Mumbai, warned them of strict action if any were found using the chemical,” said FDA Assistant Commissioner (Food) Suresh Deshmukh.

Many traders use the chemical because it ripens the fruit in 2.5 days and the fruit can be made available in the market before the season starts. Representation pic