ANJALI YADAV /Dehradun
Dehradun’s fruit sellers are witnessing an unusual slump this summer, as growing concerns over chemically ripened produce keep the buyers away. What is typically the peak season for fruits like mangoes, watermelons and bananas has turned subdued, with vendors reporting a sharp dip in footfall.
The worried fruit sellers say that the shift in consumer behaviour is a stark contrast to that of previous years. “By this time last year, we would barely get time to breathe with people lining up for seasonal fruits,” said Rajkaran, a vendor in one of the city’s busy markets. “Now, customers walk up with suspicion, not excitement. Many just ask questions and leave without buying.”
Another fruit trader in Dharampur, Jitesh Kumar echoed similar concerns, saying that fear has replaced trust. “Every second customer asks if the bananas or mangoes are chemically ripened. Some even inspect each fruit closely. We try to assure them that we source from reliable farmers, but the doubt is too strong,” he said, adding that daily sales have dropped significantly 15-20 per cent.
Among residents, anxiety appears to be driven as much by word of mouth as by social media chatter. A resident, Anit Chaudhary said that traditional ripening practices have largely disappeared. “Earlier, fruits were ripened naturally using hay or stored methods. Now people believe chemicals are being used everywhere. Even if a fruit looks fresh outside, you’re not sure what’s inside,” he said.
Another resident, Shivani Mondol pointed to the role of online information in amplifying concerns. “There are so many posts and videos warning about harmful chemicals. It makes you think twice before buying, even though fruits are essential in this heat,” she said.
Health experts say that the fear is not entirely unfounded. A nutritionist, Parul Goel warned that substances like calcium carbide, often used for artificial ripening, can pose health risks. “Exposure can lead to headaches, dizziness and digestive issues. While occasional consumption may not always cause serious harm, regular intake is definitely a concern,” she said.
She advised consumers to take precautions such as washing fruits thoroughly, peeling them where possible and buying from trusted vendors.
The current situation highlights a growing trust deficit between consumers and sellers, underlining the need for stricter checks, better awareness and visible enforcement to restore confidence in what is otherwise a vital part of the summer diet.
