PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE / Dehradun
As the mango season approaches, health experts in Dehradun have warned about the increasing use of chemicals to artificially ripen fruits, adding that consuming such fruits could cause health issues.
Substances like calcium carbide and ethephon are commonly used to accelerate the ripening process, particularly for fruits like mangoes, bananas and papayas. Doctors say that these chemicals can leave behind residues that may affect the body when consumed. Gastroenterologist Dr Amit Soni said that such fruits can irritate the digestive system and lead to health issues. “We see cases where people report stomach pain, vomiting or diarrhoea after eating such fruits. Sometimes there are also symptoms like headaches or dizziness,” he said.
Soni added that repeated exposure, even in small quantities, may not be safe especially for children, pregnant women and elderly individuals. He advised people to seek medical help if symptoms persist, worsen or involve dehydration or repeated vomiting.
Dietitian Parul Goel said that consumers can often identify artificially ripened fruits through basic visual cues. “If a fruit has an overly bright colour, feels too soft from the outside but remains unripe inside, or looks unusually shiny, it could be chemically treated,” she said. She noted that while washing and peeling fruits may reduce surface-level contamination, they cannot remove chemicals that have already penetrated inside. This makes careful selection at the time of purchase important.
Experts suggest opting for seasonal and locally sourced fruits, which are less likely to undergo artificial ripening. Buying from trusted vendors and avoiding bulk storage at home can also reduce the risk.
Natural ripening methods, such as storing fruits with ethylene-producing items like bananas in a closed space, are considered safer alternatives. While such fruits may not look uniform, they tend to have a more natural taste and aroma. Experts say that greater awareness among consumers is key, as informed choices can help reduce the demand for chemically ripened produce in the market.
