Don’t be fooled by shiny mangoes: Hyderabad CP Sajjanar issues toxic fruit warning

Hyderabad: As mangoes flood city markets with the onset of summer, the Hyderabad City Police have issued a public advisory cautioning consumers against the growing menace of chemically ripened fruits.

While the mango continues to reign as the ‘king of fruits,’ officials warn that unsafe ripening practices are turning this seasonal delight into a potential health hazard.

Don’t be deceived by the look of mangoes: Sajjanar

Emphasising the importance of consumer awareness, Commissioner of Police VC Sajjanar, IPS, urged the public to prioritise safety over appearance while purchasing fruits. “Do not be deceived by the outward look of mangoes. Ensure they are naturally ripened before consumption,” he said.

Artificial ripening raises health concerns

According to the police, some traders are using hazardous substances such as calcium carbide to artificially ripen mangoes in a bid to speed up sales and maximise profits. These chemicals pose serious risks to public health.

Medical experts caution that consuming such fruits can lead to immediate symptoms like throat irritation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Prolonged exposure may even result in severe complications, including damage to the nervous system and respiratory issues.

How to identify toxic mangoes

Consumers are advised to remain vigilant and look out for the following signs:

- Avoid being misled by the shiny, uniformly yellow appearance of mangoes commonly sold at roadside stalls.

- Naturally ripened mangoes typically have uneven colouration

- Chemically ripened ones appear bright yellow externally but may be raw inside

- Presence of a chemical smell or unusual taste is a warning sign

- Spots on the skin or abnormal colour changes after washing may indicate contamination

Question ‘organic’ labels

Authorities also urged caution while purchasing fruits labelled as ‘organic,’ advising buyers to verify authenticity before making a purchase.

Police intensify crackdown

The Hyderabad City Police stated that the H-FAST (Hyderabad Food Adulteration Safety Team) is maintaining strict surveillance on the sale of adulterated mangoes across the city.

Legal action is being initiated against traders found violating food safety norms.

Public urged to report violations

Citizens are encouraged to play an active role by reporting any suspected sale of chemically ripened mangoes.

Complaints can be lodged by dialling 100 or contacting the H-FAST helpline at 8712661212.