India: New, dangerous method for artifically ripening mangoes
Unusually, the mangoes had not been ripened using calcium carbide, as is normally the case. On this occasion the rogue fruits had been brought to maturity with a pesticide called ethiron.
FSSA enforcement officer Dr R S Ramesh, food inspectors Bubalan, Muthukrishnan, and Corporation health officer Dr Aruna were responsible for seizing the mangoes whilst enforcing protocol in a number of markets.
“Around 3 tonnes of mangoes were seized and sent to the corporation compost yard at Vendipalayam to be destroyed. The residue of the pesticide sprayed on the mangoes would cause digestion and other problems to consumers,” Dr Ramesh said.
Officials say this method has come into use since calcium practices were placed under the spotlight.
“Health officials will continue their raids on mango mandis and take necessary action on traders who resort to such techniques. If they continue to violate the norms, stern action will be taken against them.”
Officials report that the traders have been notified of the health reasons behind the legislation.
Source: newindianexpress.com
