FSSAI Cracks Down on Calcium Carbide Use in Fruit Markets With Urgent State-Wide Inspections

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed state food commissioners to intensify inspections in fruit markets and storage godowns to prevent the use of banned artificial ripening agents, including calcium carbide. The advisory comes amid growing concerns over the unsafe use of chemical substances to accelerate the ripening of fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and papayas, which are widely consumed across the country.

In its communication, the food regulator instructed authorities in all states to closely monitor the sale and distribution of fresh fruits and take strict action against the use of unauthorised ripening chemicals. FSSAI emphasised that compliance with food safety regulations is essential to ensure that fruits reaching consumers are free from harmful additives and meet prescribed safety standards.

The regulator specifically reiterated that calcium carbide, commonly referred to in some markets as "masala", is strictly prohibited under existing food safety regulations for artificial ripening purposes. The agency noted that despite the ban, instances of its misuse continue to be reported in certain regions, prompting renewed enforcement measures at the ground level.

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FSSAI also highlighted the health hazards associated with calcium carbide exposure, stating that it can pose serious risks to consumers. Reported effects include difficulty in swallowing, vomiting, irritation, and skin-related complications, making its use in food supply chains a significant public health concern that requires immediate attention from enforcement authorities.

The directive urges state food safety departments to carry out regular inspections in fruit markets, wholesale mandis, and storage facilities where artificial ripening practices are more likely to occur. Officials have also been asked to take preventive action and ensure strict compliance with food safety norms to protect consumers from unsafe produce.

As the fruit trade intensifies during seasonal demand, particularly for mangoes, the FSSAI’s move aims to strengthen surveillance and discourage the use of illegal chemical agents. Authorities are expected to increase monitoring efforts in the coming weeks to ensure safer food practices across supply chains.

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