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In a major move to safeguard public health, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a sweeping directive to all States and Union Territories, instructing them to intensify inspections and launch special enforcement drives against the illegal use of non-permitted fruit ripening agents and synthetic coatings on fruits.

The FSSAI specifically highlighted the rampant use of calcium carbide—commonly known as ‘masala’—for artificial ripening, which is strictly banned under the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011. The regulator warned that the presence of calcium carbide at fruit markets, mandis, or storage facilities will be treated as circumstantial evidence against Food Business Operators (FBOs), potentially leading to prosecution under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

The authority also flagged the unsafe practice of dipping bananas and other fruits directly into ethephon solution for ripening. FSSAI clarified that ethephon may only be used to generate ethylene gas and strictly as per the prescribed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). A comprehensive guidance document, “Artificial Ripening of Fruits – Ethylene Gas: A Safe Fruit Ripener,” details the correct protocols for safe fruit ripening.

FSSAI emphasized the severe health risks posed by illegal agents, including mouth ulcers, gastric irritation, and carcinogenic effects. The regulator has urged all stakeholders—including FBOs, supply chain participants, and consumers—to remain vigilant and ensure only safe, lawfully ripened fruits reach the market.

Key Highlights:

States and UTs directed to intensify inspections and enforcement in fruit markets and storage facilities.

Strict ban on calcium carbide for ripening; its presence is grounds for prosecution.

Synthetic coatings and non-permitted waxes also under scrutiny.

Unsafe use of ethephon solution flagged; only ethylene gas via SOP is permitted.

Violators face strict penal action under FSS Act, 2006.

FSSAI urges vigilance across the supply chain to ensure food safety.

Source: The Economic Times, Business Standard, FSSAI Press Release, Indian Express (May 20, 2025)