The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an important alert to fruit traders, handlers, and Food Business Operators (FBOs) who operate ripening chambers. This alert emphasizes the need to strictly follow the prohibition on using calcium carbide for artificially ripening fruits, especially during the mango season.
FSSAI has also advised Food Safety Departments in various States and Union Territories to stay vigilant. They are encouraged to take serious action against anyone involved in these illegal practices, as outlined in the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006, and its associated Rules and Regulations.
Why Calcium Carbide is Dangerous
Calcium carbide is commonly used to ripen fruits like mangoes. However, it releases acetylene gas, which contains harmful traces of arsenic and phosphorus. These substances, known as ‘Masala,’ can cause severe health issues, including dizziness, frequent thirst, irritation, weakness, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and skin ulcers. Additionally, acetylene gas is dangerous for those handling it. There is also a risk that calcium carbide may directly contact the fruits, leaving harmful residues of arsenic and phosphorus.
Due to these dangers, the use of calcium carbide for ripening fruits is banned under Regulation 2.3.5 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011. This regulation clearly states that no one shall sell or offer for sale fruits that have been artificially ripened using acetylene gas, also known as carbide gas.
Safe Alternative: Ethylene Gas
In response to the widespread use of banned calcium carbide, FSSAI has approved the use of ethylene gas as a safer alternative for fruit ripening in India. Ethylene gas can be used at concentrations up to 100 ppm (100 µl/L), depending on the type of fruit, its variety, and maturity. Ethylene is a natural hormone in fruits that regulates the ripening process by triggering a series of chemical and biochemical activities. Treating unripe fruits with ethylene gas initiates the natural ripening process until the fruit starts producing ethylene in substantial quantities.
Additionally, the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIB & RC) has approved Ethephon 39% SL for the uniform ripening of mangoes and other fruits.
Guidance Document
FSSAI has published a comprehensive guidance document titled “Artificial Ripening of Fruits – Ethylene Gas a Safe Fruit Ripener.” This document provides Food Business Operators with detailed procedures for the artificial ripening of fruits using ethylene gas. It includes a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) covering all aspects of artificial ripening, such as restrictions, requirements for ethylene ripening systems or chambers, handling conditions, sources of ethylene gas, protocols for applying ethylene gas, post-treatment operations, and safety guidelines.
Reporting Violations
Consumers who notice the use of calcium carbide or any improper use of ripening agents for the artificial ripening of fruits should report it to the State Commissioners of Food Safety. Action will be taken against violators. The details of the Commissioners of Food Safety for all States and Union Territories are available here: Commissioners of Food Safety.
This advisory is a critical reminder from FSSAI to ensure the safety and health of consumers by following legal and safe practices in fruit ripening.
Final Thoughts
The FSSAI’s alert highlights the critical need to follow safe and legal fruit ripening practices, particularly during mango season. Banning calcium carbide is essential to protect public health due to the harmful effects of acetylene gas, which can leave dangerous residues on fruits.
By endorsing ethylene gas as a safer alternative, FSSAI offers a natural solution that aligns with the fruits’ natural ripening process, ensuring safe, high-quality produce. The detailed guidance document helps Food Business Operators implement these practices effectively.
All stakeholders—traders, handlers, and consumers—must stay vigilant and report any violations to ensure compliance and protect public health. Cooperation among regulatory bodies, food businesses, and consumers is vital for maintaining safe food practices and enjoying naturally ripened fruits without health risks.
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