On May 20, 2025, The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a directive to all States and Union Territories to tighten inspections and launch special enforcement drives against the illegal use of harmful fruit ripening agents and synthetic colouring. This move comes in response to growing concerns about the widespread use of non-permitted substances in fruit markets and mandis, which pose serious health risks to consumers.
FSSAI has asked Commissioners of Food Safety and its Regional Directors to maintain strict watch over storage units and marketplaces where illegal ripening practices may be taking place. Special attention is being given to the use of calcium carbide, often referred to as 'masala', a banned substance known to artificially ripen fruits quickly.
The presence of calcium carbide in storage areas, even if not directly applied to fruits, will be considered strong circumstantial evidence and may lead to strict legal action under the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006.
Calcium carbide is strictly banned under the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011. This chemical is hazardous to health and is linked to serious conditions such as mouth ulcers, gastric irritation, and even cancer.
Additionally, FSSAI has flagged the misuse of ethephon solution for ripening fruits like bananas, where the fruits are directly dipped into the chemical, which violates safety norms. To guide the industry, the authority has shared a detailed document titled "Artificial Ripening of Fruits – Ethylene Gas: A Safe Fruit Ripener," which outlines the safe use of ethylene gas through approved methods.
This guidance includes standard operating procedures regarding chamber conditions, application methods, and post-treatment practices to ensure the safety of the fruits.
FSSAI has made it clear that any violations of these guidelines will result in strict penalties. The authority also encourages food business operators and consumers to remain vigilant and ensure that only safely ripened, legally compliant fruits reach the markets.
