The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a nationwide mandate to strictly enforce the ban on calcium carbide for ripening fruits.
Targeting popular seasonal produce like mangoes and bananas, the regulator has directed all states and union territories to intensify inspections and penalize violators to ensure consumer safety.
While calcium carbide—a hazardous chemical—is strictly prohibited, the FSSAI is also addressing the misuse of Ethephon.
Although ethylene gas is a recognized "safe" ripening agent, the regulator’s updated guidance note clarifies that direct application of ethylene in powder or liquid form onto fruits is forbidden.
The Directive at a Glance:
Total Ban: No calcium carbide allowed under any circumstances.
Restricted Use: Ethylene gas must be used via approved methods, not direct contact.
Enforcement: Regional directors and licensing authorities have been ordered to conduct "rigorous monitoring" to uphold food safety norms.
By tightening these protocols, the FSSAI aims to eliminate toxic ripening practices and promote healthier consumption.