In Telangana, a collaborative operation involving Task Force detectives and GHMC food safety officers uncovered the widespread use of harmful chemicals for artificially ripening mangoes at various warehouses and fruit stalls. Task Force DCP Rashmi Perumal disclosed that the operation, motivated by reliable intelligence, spanned all seven zones, resulting in five cases against seven individuals.
The use of carbide and ethylene for mango ripening, as identified during the raids, poses significant health hazards, including the potential for skin, lung, and neurological issues. The authorities seized 3,860 kilograms of mangoes, 26 trays of the fruit, carbide powder, and ethylene sachets. The incidents have been reported to police stations including Habeeb Nagar, Sultan Bazaar, Afzal Gunj, Chaderghat, and Bhavani Nagar, highlighting the serious implications of such chemical use on consumer health.
Source: newindianexpress.com