In surprise checks conducted in fruit stalls in Coimbatore on Wednesday, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) seized and destroyed 14.7 tonnes of artificially ripened fruits.
The mango and sweet-lime (mosambi) fruits were seized after they were discovered to have been ripened in an illegal manner using ethylene sachets.
On the orders of District Collector G.S. Sameeran, six FSSAI teams led by designated officer K. Tamilselvan examined fruit vendors around the city.
According to recent research, ethylene affects the expression of numerous genes involved in fruit ripening. These enzymes break down complex polysaccharides into simple sugars, making the fruit's skin supple. Chemicals are used to replicate this process in artificial ripening.
The teams investigated 45 fruit vendors on Vysial Street, Big Bazaar Street, Karuppagounder Street, and Pavala Street I and II, according to a statement from the district government.
The surprise checks resulted in the seizure of 12.35 tonnes of mango and 2.35 tonnes of sweet lime. The seized fruits, estimated to be worth roughly 8.10 lakh, were transferred to the Corporation's compost yard and demolished. In connection with the seizure of artificially ripened fruits, the FSSAI has given notice on 12 vendors.
According to Dr. Tamilselvan, ethylene sachets were discovered in trays and were in touch with the fruits. The fruit should not come into direct contact with the ripening chemical. It can be employed in ripening chambers where the fruits do not come into touch with the ripening agent, according to him.
According to the press release, eating artificially ripened fruits might induce gastrointestinal issues, diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, and skin allergies.
The FSSAI will perform similar checks across the area, according to the district administration, to check for artificial ripening of fruits. The public can contact the FSSAI via WhatsApp at 94440-42322 to report complaints or any particular information.
