(a) whether the increasing use of Calcium Carbide for artificial ripening of
raw mangoes is a health hazard;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the corrective action taken/being taken by the Government to check such
practices by the traders?
(a) whether the increasing use of Calcium Carbide for artificial ripening of
raw mangoes is a health hazard;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the corrective action taken/being taken by the Government to check such
practices by the traders?
THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE
(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)
(a) to (c): Rule 44 AA of the Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) Rules 1955 prohibits the sale of fruits which has been artificially ripened by use of acetylene gas commonly known as carbide gas produced from Calcium Carbide. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has informed that according to Indian Council of Medical Research, Calcium Carbide produces gases like Hydrogen Sulphide and Phosphine in small amounts which are know to produce nausea, vomiting and headache. The Food (Health) Authorities of States/UTs who are responsible for implementation of PFA Act, 1954 and PFA Rules, 1955 in their State/U.T. have been requested from time to time to keep a strict vigil on use of carbide gas for ripening of fruits and take legal action for violation of the above provision.