India’s top food safety authority, FSSAI, has raised an alarm over increasing cases of illegal ripening agents and synthetic coatings used in fruits. In a nationwide advisory, it has urged all states and union territories to intensify surveillance and inspections across fruit markets.
The move follows concerns about harmful chemicals being used to artificially ripen fruits or coat them with synthetic wax for visual appeal. These substances pose serious health risks to consumers and violate food safety norms.
FSSAI has directed enforcement officials to conduct random sampling and spot checks at wholesale and retail outlets. Key areas of concern include the use of calcium carbide, a banned substance often used to speed up fruit ripening. The substance, when in contact with moisture, releases acetylene gas which mimics ethylene but is toxic to humans.
In addition to chemical ripeners, authorities are also cracking down on synthetic coatings applied to fruits like apples and citrus to enhance shine and shelf life. These coatings may contain petroleum-based waxes not approved for food use.
To promote public awareness, FSSAI has asked state bodies to launch education campaigns for both vendors and consumers. It has advised traders to use only approved methods such as ethylene gas in controlled environments for ripening. Consumers are encouraged to wash fruits thoroughly and report any suspicious smell, taste, or texture.
The food safety authority has also shared testing protocols and safety parameters with local officials to streamline enforcement. Any vendor found violating safety norms could face fines, imprisonment, or licence suspension.
This nationwide action aligns with FSSAI’s broader efforts to ensure safer food practices under the Eat Right India movement. Regular surveillance, public participation, and inter-agency cooperation are expected to form the backbone of this initiative.
Consumers have been advised to stay alert, choose locally sourced fruits where possible, and avoid fruits that look unnaturally glossy or ripe.
