Business EconomyPosted at: Apr 17 2026 3:07PM


FSSAI directs States to intensify checks on use of prohibited fruit ripening agents

New Delhi, Apr 17 (UNI) The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed all States and union Territories to step up surveillance and enforcement against the use of unauthorized and hazardous artificial ripening agents in fruits, reiterating that substances such as calcium carbide are strictly prohibited.
In a communication issued on April 16, FSSAI asked Commissioners of Food Safety, Regional Directors and Central Licensing Authorities to intensify inspections across fruit markets, mandis, storage facilities, wholesalers and distribution networks, particularly during the seasonal arrival of fruits.
The authority reiterated that the use of calcium carbide, commonly referred to as “masala”, for artificial ripening is banned under the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011. It warned that the chemical poses serious health risks, including difficulty in swallowing, vomiting and skin ulcers.
FSSAI also noted instances where food business operators (FBOs) are using ethephon solutions for ripening fruits such as bananas.
It emphasized that its guidelines on artificial ripening permit only the use of ethylene gas under controlled conditions and strictly prohibit direct contact of fruits with ethylene in powder or liquid forms.
Calling for stricter vigilance, the regulator said enforcement drives may be undertaken to curb the illegal use of calcium carbide and other non-permitted agents, including synthetic colours and wax.
The presence of such substances at premises or near fruit consignments could be treated as evidence for initiating prosecution under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Additionally, enforcement officials have been advised to use strip paper tests to detect acetylene gas in godowns or ripening chambers, which may indicate the use of banned chemicals.
The directive forms part of FSSAI’s ongoing efforts to ensure food safety and protect public health by eliminating unsafe practices in the fruit supply chain. UNI KK AAB
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