Mangoes, bananas, papayas under watch: FSSAI crackdown begins over illegal ‘masala’ use for ripening; What India’s top food regulator is warning
FSSAI Issues New Alert on Artificial Fruit Ripening
In a recent directive dated April 16, 2026, FSSAI made it clear: Calcium carbide, commonly known as ‘masala’, is strictly prohibited in ripening of fruits.
Quoting the advisory, FSSAI stated: “The use of calcium carbide (‘masala’) is prohibited… as it poses serious health risks such as difficulty in swallowing, vomiting, skin ulcers, etc.”
This latest FSSAI warning on artificial fruit ripening reinforces earlier recommendations and signals stricter enforcement across states.
Why is Calcium Carbide in Fruits Dangerous?
Using calcium carbide for fruit ripening is a risky business. When used in fruits such as mangoes, bananas and papayas, calcium carbide releases acetylene gas, which can contain harmful amounts of arsenic and phosphorus. According to FSSAI, this can lead to:
- Vomiting and nausea
- Skin irritation and ulcers
- Breathing and swallowing problems
So if your fruit looks perfect but feels suspiciously monotonous, it might be worth a second thought.
FSSAI Tightens Rules on Fruit Ripening Substances
FSSAI guidelines on fruit ripening are not limited to banning calcium carbide only. The regulator also flagged the misuse of ethephon solutions, which some traders allegedly used to speed up maturation. FSSAI clearly states: “Direct contact of fruits with ethylene (in powder or liquid form) is strictly prohibited.”
As per FSSAI norms, only controlled use of ethylene gas is allowed in safe ripening rooms.
Strict Inspections Listed in the States
FSSAI has issued directions to enforce the ban on illegal fruit ripening:
- State food safety commissioners to intensify inspections
- Authorities to monitor mandis, storage units and distribution centers
- Special drives to prevent the use of calcium carbide and other prohibited substances
The advisory even mentions that the presence of calcium carbide on site could lead to prosecution under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
How Will Authorities Catch Criminals?
Here’s the interesting part: FSSAI does not rely on guesswork. Authorities were authorized to use strip paper tests to detect acetylene gas in storage facilities and maturation rooms. Basically, if illegal ripening is happening, it will not remain hidden for long.
What Does This Mean for Consumers?
For ordinary consumers, this FSSAI crackdown on fruit ripening is actually good news. It means:
- Safer fruits on the market
- Better monitoring of food practices
- Less exposure to harmful chemicals
Quick tip though, naturally ripe fruit often has slight imperfections. If everything looks too flashy, it may not be as natural as it seems.
