The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed authorities across states and Union Territories to intensify enforcement against the use of illegal fruit ripening agents, reiterating a strict ban on calcium carbide for artificial ripening.
Crackdown on Calcium Carbide (‘Masala’)
In an official communication, the FSSAI instructed Commissioners of Food Safety and Regional Directors to step up surveillance of fruit markets, mandis, and storage facilities. The directive specifically targets the use of calcium carbide—commonly referred to as “masala”—which is widely misused by traders to accelerate the ripening of fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and papayas.
The authority reaffirmed that the use of calcium carbide is prohibited under Regulation 2.3.5 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011. The chemical poses significant health risks, including difficulty in swallowing, vomiting, and skin ulcers.
Concerns Over Misuse of Ethephon
The FSSAI also raised concerns regarding the improper use of ethephon-based solutions. While ethylene gas is permitted as a safe ripening agent under controlled conditions, the regulator noted instances where Food Business Operators (FBOs) directly dip fruits into chemical solutions—an act that violates prescribed safety guidelines.
Referring to its “Guidance Note on Artificial Ripening of Fruits,” the authority emphasized that direct contact of fruits or vegetables with ethylene in powder or liquid form is strictly prohibited.
Intensified Enforcement and Legal Action
To ensure compliance, the FSSAI has called for special enforcement drives in wholesale markets, distribution hubs, and storage centres, particularly during peak fruit seasons. Officials have been directed to maintain strict vigilance and take immediate legal action where violations are detected.
The presence of calcium carbide on premises or alongside fruit consignments may be treated as circumstantial evidence, enabling prosecution under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Enforcement teams have also been authorised to use strip paper tests to detect acetylene gas in storage areas and ripening chambers. Additionally, the regulator has cautioned against the unauthorised application of wax and synthetic colours on fresh produce.
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