The Hyderabad Food Adulteration Surveillance Team (H-FAST), a specialized unit of Hyderabad Police, is closely monitoring the sale of chemically ripened mangoes. Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar, who leads H-FAST, emphasized that legal action is being taken against those flouting regulations. He advised the public to be cautious when buying mangoes, warning against fruits with unnatural color, chemical odor, or unusual taste.
Consumers were urged to check for any abnormal skin spots or color changes when washed with baking soda water, as these indicate harmful mangoes. Reporting any information on adulterated mangoes was encouraged through Dial 100 or the H-FAST helpline at 8712661212. The Police Commissioner highlighted the risks associated with chemically ripened mangoes and cautioned against being misled by labels claiming organic produce. He urged consumers to verify the authenticity of mangoes before purchase.
As summer arrives, mangoes flood the markets, but the Police Commissioner warned of dangers posed by chemically ripened fruits. He pointed out that some traders artificially ripen mangoes using hazardous chemicals like Calcium Carbide for profit. Consumers were advised to be wary of shiny, golden fruits on roadside stalls, as they might be chemically ripened. The Commissioner stressed that naturally ripened mangoes have an uneven color, unlike artificially ripened ones, which can cause immediate health issues and long-term complications.
Sajjanar emphasized the Hyderabad Police’s strict stance against traders risking public health by selling chemically ripened fruits. A specialized food adulteration surveillance team has been set up to enhance food safety enforcement.
