Food Safety Officers Warn Mango Farmers Against Carbide Use
District food safety officer Y. Ramaiah conducted inspections at mango trading shops in Amalapuram and promoted the use of the ethylene method as the safe alternative.
KAKINADA: Food safety officials in Konaseema district have warned mango traders against using calcium carbide for artificial ripening, stating that strict action will be taken if violations are found.
District food safety officer Y. Ramaiah conducted inspections at mango trading shops in Amalapuram and promoted the use of the ethylene method as the safe alternative. He said the Food Safety and Standards Act prohibits the use of calcium carbide for ripening fruits.
He said calcium carbide releases acetylene gas on contact with water, which contains toxic substances such as arsenic and phosphorus and can cause cancer, neurological disorders and skin diseases. He warned that using the substance is a criminal offence punishable with fines and imprisonment.
He reiterated that only ethylene gas should be used for artificial ripening and that its concentration must remain within prescribed limits. He added that naturally ripened fruits have a pleasant aroma and a mix of green and yellow patches on the surface.