FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Unsafe Fruit Ripening Practices

FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Unsafe Fruit Ripening Practices. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the nation’s top food safety regulator, has intensified its focus on food safety by launching a major nationwide crackdown on illegal fruit ripening practices. This decisive move comes amid growing concerns over the increasing use of banned chemical agents, especially calcium carbide, during the mango season. The directive issued by FSSAI urges all state governments and Union Territories to strengthen enforcement, inspection, and awareness efforts to curb the harmful practice of artificial fruit ripening, which poses a serious risk to public health.
Why in the News?
FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices became a trending topic on May 21, 2025, when the FSSAI issued a nationwide directive instructing food safety commissioners and regional directors to launch special enforcement drives across the country. The regulator’s immediate concern was the widespread use of calcium carbide — a chemical agent banned under Indian food safety laws, that is often used to ripen fruits like mangoes quickly.
This directive comes at an important time when mangoes are in peak demand, and traders often resort to shortcuts to meet market expectations. Calcium carbide, though banned, is still being used in several mandis and storage facilities, making it essential for authorities to act promptly and safeguard public health.
Objective of the Directive on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices
The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices directive has a clear set of objectives aimed at addressing the issue from multiple angles.

The first and main goal is to ensure that only naturally ripened fruits reach consumers. Naturally ripened fruits not only taste better but are also safer and free from harmful chemical residues.
The directive aims to protect consumers from exposure to toxic substances. Calcium carbide, in particular, is known to release harmful residues, including arsenic and phosphorus, which can enter the human body through consumption, leading to severe health risks. By targeting these practices, FSSAI wants to reduce the risk of chemical poisoning among the population.
The directive seeks to strengthen state-level enforcement. By empowering state food safety commissioners and regional officers, the FSSAI hopes to establish a strong monitoring system across fruit markets, cold storages, and transportation hubs, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.

Calcium Carbide: The main concern these practices
One of the central issues driving the FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices is the rampant use of calcium carbide in fruit markets. Calcium carbide is a chemical compound that, when mixed with moisture, releases acetylene gas, which acts like ethylene and triggers ripening in fruits. However, acetylene is not safe for use in food applications.
Calcium carbide can contain traces of arsenic and phosphorus, making it highly toxic. Prolonged exposure or consumption of fruits ripened using this chemical can cause several health problems. Consumers have reported mouth ulcers, stomach upset, dizziness, and in severe cases, neurological disorders after consuming such chemically treated fruits. Furthermore, long-term exposure is believed to have carcinogenic effects, increasing the risk of cancer. This makes it important for authorities to eliminate the use of calcium carbide entirely from the food supply chain, as its hazards extend beyond immediate health issues to long-term public health concerns.
FSSAI’s Key Directives
The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices directive comes with several strong instructions for state governments and enforcement authorities.
1. The FSSAI has called for intensified inspections at all levels, including mandis, wholesale markets, local fruit vendors, and cold storage facilities. Regular and surprise checks will help identify violators and prevent the sale of artificially ripened fruits.
2. The FSSAI has emphasized the need for massive awareness campaigns targeting farmers, traders, and consumers. Farmers and traders often use banned chemicals without fully understanding the risks involved. Educational campaigns will inform them about the dangers of using calcium carbide and introduce them to safer, approved methods of ripening.
3. The FSSAI is actively encouraging the use of ethylene gas under controlled conditions. Ethylene is a natural plant hormone that induces ripening safely and is approved for commercial use. By promoting ethylene generators or ripening chambers, the regulator aims to provide the industry with a viable alternative to harmful chemical practices.
4. The directive clearly mentions that legal action will be taken against those violating the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Violators can face heavy penalties, license cancellations, or even criminal prosecution, making it clear that non-compliance will not be tolerated.
Background of this news
The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices is not the regulator’s first attempt to tackle this issue. Artificial fruit ripening, especially during the mango season, has been a recurring problem for years. Despite several advisories issued in the past, enforcement at the state and local levels has remained patchy and inconsistent.
Traders and middlemen, eager to maximize profits during peak fruit seasons, often ignore the law and use quick ripening methods to meet market demand. This practice not only compromises food quality but also erodes consumer trust in the food system. With the current crackdown, FSSAI aims to break this cycle by ensuring that laws are enforced uniformly across states and that violators are held accountable.
Significance for India’s Food Safety Environment
The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices carries immense significance for India’s food safety landscape.
1. It is an important step toward ensuring the safety and health of millions of consumers across the country. With rising concerns over food adulteration and chemical contamination, the crackdown sends a clear message that the government is serious about protecting public health.
2. It promotes organic and natural food handling practices. As consumer demand shifts toward healthier and chemical-free options, ensuring that fruits are ripened naturally will align India’s food system with global standards of safety and sustainability. This will also benefit small farmers who focus on natural cultivation methods, giving them a competitive edge in the market.
3. The directive enhances consumer confidence. When buyers are assured that their fruits are free from harmful chemicals, their trust in local markets and food systems increases. This confidence is crucial for maintaining a robust domestic food economy and can also improve India’s reputation in international fruit exports.
Challenges in Implementation of FSSAI’s Guidelines on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices
Despite the strong directive, implementing the FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices is not without challenges. One major hurdle is the lack of adequate infrastructure and trained personnel at the state level. Many states do not have enough food safety officers to conduct widespread inspections, leading to gaps in monitoring.
Additionally, small traders and farmers may resist change due to a lack of awareness or fear of financial loss. Without proper incentives or education, they may continue using banned chemicals secretly, making enforcement difficult. Another challenge is the sheer scale of India’s fruit markets, which makes it hard to track every consignment or storage facility.
Role of Consumers
Consumers play an important role in supporting the success of the FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices. By being informed and vigilant, they can help identify suspicious-looking fruits or report illegal practices to authorities. Simple tips like checking for uniform color, avoiding overly shiny or soft fruits, and purchasing from trusted sellers can go a long way in avoiding chemically treated produce.
Consumer awareness campaigns, therefore, are not just for traders but also for the public. The more consumers demand safe and natural fruits, the greater the market pressure on traders to comply with safety norms.
Legal Framework and Penalties
Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the use of banned chemicals like calcium carbide is strictly prohibited. The Act gives FSSAI the authority to inspect, seize, and take legal action against violators. Penalties can include fines, suspension or cancellation of FSSAI Licenses, and in severe cases, imprisonment.
The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices is built upon this legal framework, ensuring that all enforcement actions are backed by law. Traders and vendors found violating the law can no longer claim ignorance, as repeated advisories and awareness drives have already been issued.
Alternative Solutions: Ethylene Gas
To address the issue practically, the FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices directive strongly promotes the use of ethylene gas as a safe alternative. Ethylene is naturally produced by fruits and is a key hormone involved in ripening. When used in controlled environments like ripening chambers, ethylene gas can replicate natural ripening processes without leaving harmful residues.
FSSAI encourages traders and farmers to invest in ethylene-based ripening systems, which are affordable, safe, and approved under Indian regulations. Training programs and subsidies may also be offered in some states to help small farmers transition away from harmful chemicals.
Conclusion
The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices marks an important moment in India’s ongoing efforts to secure food safety and protect public health. By targeting the banned use of calcium carbide, intensifying inspections, promoting safe alternatives, and holding violators accountable, FSSAI is taking comprehensive steps to clean up the fruit supply chain. This crackdown is not just about regulatory enforcement, it is a movement toward a healthier, safer, and more transparent food system. Consumers, traders, and policymakers must work together to ensure that the fruits on our plates are not just ripe and delicious, but also safe and free from harmful chemicals.
FAQs
Q1. What is the main reason behind FSSAI launching a crackdown on illegal fruit ripening practices?
Ans. The main reason behind FSSAI launching a crackdown on illegal fruit ripening practices is to protect public health by stopping the use of banned chemicals like calcium carbide. This chemical, often used to speed up the ripening of mangoes and other fruits, contains harmful substances such as arsenic and phosphorus, which can cause serious health problems. FSSAI wants to ensure that consumers get only naturally ripened fruits that are safe to eat and free from toxic residues.
Q2. Why is calcium carbide dangerous for ripening fruits?
Ans. Calcium carbide is dangerous because when it comes into contact with moisture, it produces acetylene gas, which mimics natural ripening but leaves behind harmful chemical residues. This chemical can contain traces of arsenic and phosphorus, which are toxic to humans. Eating fruits ripened with calcium carbide can lead to mouth ulcers, stomach upset, dizziness, and long-term health risks like cancer. That’s why FSSAI strictly bans its use and promotes safe alternatives.
Q3. What safer alternative does FSSAI recommend for ripening fruits?
Ans. FSSAI recommends the use of ethylene gas as a safer and approved alternative for ripening fruits. Ethylene is a natural plant hormone that helps fruits ripen safely under controlled conditions without leaving harmful chemical residues. Unlike calcium carbide, ethylene gas is not harmful when used properly in ripening chambers or with ethylene generators, making it a better choice for farmers, traders, and the entire fruit supply chain.
Q4. What steps are included in the FSSAI directive to stop illegal fruit ripening?
Ans. The FSSAI directive includes several strong steps: first, it instructs state authorities to increase inspections in fruit markets, mandis, and storage facilities; second, it calls for awareness campaigns to educate farmers, traders, and consumers about the risks of illegal ripening practices; third, it promotes the use of ethylene gas as a safer alternative; and lastly, it warns that legal action will be taken against violators under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Q5. What legal action can be taken against violators who use banned ripening agents?
Ans. Violators who use banned ripening agents like calcium carbide can face strict penalties under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. These penalties can include heavy fines, cancellation or suspension of food licenses, product seizures, and even criminal prosecution leading to imprisonment in severe cases. The crackdown ensures that those who put public health at risk will be held accountable by law.
Q6. How can consumers protect themselves from buying chemically ripened fruits?
Ans. Consumers can protect themselves by learning to identify artificially ripened fruits. Chemically ripened mangoes often have an unnaturally bright yellow color, uneven ripening, or may feel overly soft. Consumers should try to buy fruits from trusted sellers or organic markets, wash fruits thoroughly before eating, and stay informed through awareness campaigns run by FSSAI and local food safety departments. Reporting suspicious practices can also help authorities take timely action.
Q7. What is the long-term impact of FSSAI’s crackdown on the fruit market?
Ans. The long-term impact of FSSAI’s crackdown on illegal fruit ripening practices is expected to be very positive. It will encourage farmers and traders to adopt safer, approved ripening methods, improve the overall quality of fruits sold in the market, and increase consumer trust in the food supply chain. Over time, this enforcement will also push India’s agricultural practices toward global food safety standards, making the country’s produce more competitive in both domestic and international markets.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the nation’s top food safety regulator, has intensified its focus on food safety by launching a major nationwide crackdown on illegal fruit ripening practices. This decisive move comes amid growing concerns over the increasing use of banned chemical agents, especially calcium carbide, during the mango season. The directive issued by FSSAI urges all state governments and Union Territories to strengthen enforcement, inspection, and awareness efforts to curb the harmful practice of artificial fruit ripening, which poses a serious risk to public health.

Why in the News?

FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices became a trending topic on May 21, 2025, when the FSSAI issued a nationwide directive instructing food safety commissioners and regional directors to launch special enforcement drives across the country. The regulator’s immediate concern was the widespread use of calcium carbide — a chemical agent banned under Indian food safety laws, that is often used to ripen fruits like mangoes quickly.

This directive comes at an important time when mangoes are in peak demand, and traders often resort to shortcuts to meet market expectations. Calcium carbide, though banned, is still being used in several mandis and storage facilities, making it essential for authorities to act promptly and safeguard public health.

Objective of the Directive on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices

The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices directive has a clear set of objectives aimed at addressing the issue from multiple angles.

The first and main goal is to ensure that only naturally ripened fruits reach consumers. Naturally ripened fruits not only taste better but are also safer and free from harmful chemical residues.
The directive aims to protect consumers from exposure to toxic substances. Calcium carbide, in particular, is known to release harmful residues, including arsenic and phosphorus, which can enter the human body through consumption, leading to severe health risks. By targeting these practices, FSSAI wants to reduce the risk of chemical poisoning among the population.
The directive seeks to strengthen state-level enforcement. By empowering state food safety commissioners and regional officers, the FSSAI hopes to establish a strong monitoring system across fruit markets, cold storages, and transportation hubs, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.

Calcium Carbide: The main concern these practices

One of the central issues driving the FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices is the rampant use of calcium carbide in fruit markets. Calcium carbide is a chemical compound that, when mixed with moisture, releases acetylene gas, which acts like ethylene and triggers ripening in fruits. However, acetylene is not safe for use in food applications.

Calcium carbide can contain traces of arsenic and phosphorus, making it highly toxic. Prolonged exposure or consumption of fruits ripened using this chemical can cause several health problems. Consumers have reported mouth ulcers, stomach upset, dizziness, and in severe cases, neurological disorders after consuming such chemically treated fruits. Furthermore, long-term exposure is believed to have carcinogenic effects, increasing the risk of cancer. This makes it important for authorities to eliminate the use of calcium carbide entirely from the food supply chain, as its hazards extend beyond immediate health issues to long-term public health concerns.

FSSAI’s Key Directives

The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices directive comes with several strong instructions for state governments and enforcement authorities.

1. The FSSAI has called for intensified inspections at all levels, including mandis, wholesale markets, local fruit vendors, and cold storage facilities. Regular and surprise checks will help identify violators and prevent the sale of artificially ripened fruits.

2. The FSSAI has emphasized the need for massive awareness campaigns targeting farmers, traders, and consumers. Farmers and traders often use banned chemicals without fully understanding the risks involved. Educational campaigns will inform them about the dangers of using calcium carbide and introduce them to safer, approved methods of ripening.

3. The FSSAI is actively encouraging the use of ethylene gas under controlled conditions. Ethylene is a natural plant hormone that induces ripening safely and is approved for commercial use. By promoting ethylene generators or ripening chambers, the regulator aims to provide the industry with a viable alternative to harmful chemical practices.

4. The directive clearly mentions that legal action will be taken against those violating the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Violators can face heavy penalties, license cancellations, or even criminal prosecution, making it clear that non-compliance will not be tolerated.

Background of this news

The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices is not the regulator’s first attempt to tackle this issue. Artificial fruit ripening, especially during the mango season, has been a recurring problem for years. Despite several advisories issued in the past, enforcement at the state and local levels has remained patchy and inconsistent.

Traders and middlemen, eager to maximize profits during peak fruit seasons, often ignore the law and use quick ripening methods to meet market demand. This practice not only compromises food quality but also erodes consumer trust in the food system. With the current crackdown, FSSAI aims to break this cycle by ensuring that laws are enforced uniformly across states and that violators are held accountable.

Significance for India’s Food Safety Environment

The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices carries immense significance for India’s food safety landscape.

1. It is an important step toward ensuring the safety and health of millions of consumers across the country. With rising concerns over food adulteration and chemical contamination, the crackdown sends a clear message that the government is serious about protecting public health.

2. It promotes organic and natural food handling practices. As consumer demand shifts toward healthier and chemical-free options, ensuring that fruits are ripened naturally will align India’s food system with global standards of safety and sustainability. This will also benefit small farmers who focus on natural cultivation methods, giving them a competitive edge in the market.

3. The directive enhances consumer confidence. When buyers are assured that their fruits are free from harmful chemicals, their trust in local markets and food systems increases. This confidence is crucial for maintaining a robust domestic food economy and can also improve India’s reputation in international fruit exports.

Challenges in Implementation of FSSAI’s Guidelines on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices

Despite the strong directive, implementing the FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices is not without challenges. One major hurdle is the lack of adequate infrastructure and trained personnel at the state level. Many states do not have enough food safety officers to conduct widespread inspections, leading to gaps in monitoring.

Additionally, small traders and farmers may resist change due to a lack of awareness or fear of financial loss. Without proper incentives or education, they may continue using banned chemicals secretly, making enforcement difficult. Another challenge is the sheer scale of India’s fruit markets, which makes it hard to track every consignment or storage facility.

Role of Consumers

Consumers play an important role in supporting the success of the FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices. By being informed and vigilant, they can help identify suspicious-looking fruits or report illegal practices to authorities. Simple tips like checking for uniform color, avoiding overly shiny or soft fruits, and purchasing from trusted sellers can go a long way in avoiding chemically treated produce.

Consumer awareness campaigns, therefore, are not just for traders but also for the public. The more consumers demand safe and natural fruits, the greater the market pressure on traders to comply with safety norms.

Legal Framework and Penalties

Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the use of banned chemicals like calcium carbide is strictly prohibited. The Act gives FSSAI the authority to inspect, seize, and take legal action against violators. Penalties can include fines, suspension or cancellation of FSSAI Licenses, and in severe cases, imprisonment.

The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices is built upon this legal framework, ensuring that all enforcement actions are backed by law. Traders and vendors found violating the law can no longer claim ignorance, as repeated advisories and awareness drives have already been issued.

Alternative Solutions: Ethylene Gas

To address the issue practically, the FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices directive strongly promotes the use of ethylene gas as a safe alternative. Ethylene is naturally produced by fruits and is a key hormone involved in ripening. When used in controlled environments like ripening chambers, ethylene gas can replicate natural ripening processes without leaving harmful residues.

FSSAI encourages traders and farmers to invest in ethylene-based ripening systems, which are affordable, safe, and approved under Indian regulations. Training programs and subsidies may also be offered in some states to help small farmers transition away from harmful chemicals.

Conclusion

The FSSAI Launches Crackdown on Illegal Fruit Ripening Practices marks an important moment in India’s ongoing efforts to secure food safety and protect public health. By targeting the banned use of calcium carbide, intensifying inspections, promoting safe alternatives, and holding violators accountable, FSSAI is taking comprehensive steps to clean up the fruit supply chain. This crackdown is not just about regulatory enforcement, it is a movement toward a healthier, safer, and more transparent food system. Consumers, traders, and policymakers must work together to ensure that the fruits on our plates are not just ripe and delicious, but also safe and free from harmful chemicals.

FAQs

Q1. What is the main reason behind FSSAI launching a crackdown on illegal fruit ripening practices?

Ans. The main reason behind FSSAI launching a crackdown on illegal fruit ripening practices is to protect public health by stopping the use of banned chemicals like calcium carbide. This chemical, often used to speed up the ripening of mangoes and other fruits, contains harmful substances such as arsenic and phosphorus, which can cause serious health problems. FSSAI wants to ensure that consumers get only naturally ripened fruits that are safe to eat and free from toxic residues.

Q2. Why is calcium carbide dangerous for ripening fruits?

Ans. Calcium carbide is dangerous because when it comes into contact with moisture, it produces acetylene gas, which mimics natural ripening but leaves behind harmful chemical residues. This chemical can contain traces of arsenic and phosphorus, which are toxic to humans. Eating fruits ripened with calcium carbide can lead to mouth ulcers, stomach upset, dizziness, and long-term health risks like cancer. That’s why FSSAI strictly bans its use and promotes safe alternatives.

Q3. What safer alternative does FSSAI recommend for ripening fruits?

Ans. FSSAI recommends the use of ethylene gas as a safer and approved alternative for ripening fruits. Ethylene is a natural plant hormone that helps fruits ripen safely under controlled conditions without leaving harmful chemical residues. Unlike calcium carbide, ethylene gas is not harmful when used properly in ripening chambers or with ethylene generators, making it a better choice for farmers, traders, and the entire fruit supply chain.

Q4. What steps are included in the FSSAI directive to stop illegal fruit ripening?

Ans. The FSSAI directive includes several strong steps: first, it instructs state authorities to increase inspections in fruit markets, mandis, and storage facilities; second, it calls for awareness campaigns to educate farmers, traders, and consumers about the risks of illegal ripening practices; third, it promotes the use of ethylene gas as a safer alternative; and lastly, it warns that legal action will be taken against violators under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Q5. What legal action can be taken against violators who use banned ripening agents?

Ans. Violators who use banned ripening agents like calcium carbide can face strict penalties under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. These penalties can include heavy fines, cancellation or suspension of food licenses, product seizures, and even criminal prosecution leading to imprisonment in severe cases. The crackdown ensures that those who put public health at risk will be held accountable by law.

Q6. How can consumers protect themselves from buying chemically ripened fruits?

Ans. Consumers can protect themselves by learning to identify artificially ripened fruits. Chemically ripened mangoes often have an unnaturally bright yellow color, uneven ripening, or may feel overly soft. Consumers should try to buy fruits from trusted sellers or organic markets, wash fruits thoroughly before eating, and stay informed through awareness campaigns run by FSSAI and local food safety departments. Reporting suspicious practices can also help authorities take timely action.

Q7. What is the long-term impact of FSSAI’s crackdown on the fruit market?

Ans. The long-term impact of FSSAI’s crackdown on illegal fruit ripening practices is expected to be very positive. It will encourage farmers and traders to adopt safer, approved ripening methods, improve the overall quality of fruits sold in the market, and increase consumer trust in the food supply chain. Over time, this enforcement will also push India’s agricultural practices toward global food safety standards, making the country’s produce more competitive in both domestic and international markets.