In Udumalai, Tirupur District, approximately 250 kilograms of chemically ripened and decayed mangoes were seized under directives from the district authorities, aiming to ensure food safety during the mango season.
Tirupur: Under the direction of Tirupur District Collector Christhuraj and on instructions from Dr. Vijayalalithambigai, the designated officer of the Food Safety Department, food safety officer Vijayakumar conducted inspections in mango-selling outlets in Udumalai.
During the inspection, it was discovered that roughly 250 kilograms of decayed mangoes, valued at around Rs. 20,000, were being sold both wholesale and retail. These chemically ripened mangoes were seized and subsequently destroyed at the municipal dumping ground. Additionally, notices have been issued to two shops involved.
This operation forms part of a broader effort full by the district's food safety officials to address the public health risks associated with artificially ripened fruits. Mango, being a popular fruit especially during the summer, is often subjected to chemical processes to hasten ripening, posing health risks. Authorities have warned shopkeepers that severe penalties will be enforced for artificial ripening, including seizure of such fruits and imposition of fines.
The Food Safety Department is also engaging in awareness campaigns to educate vendors on the hazards of chemical ripening and the legal consequences.
During the inspection, it was discovered that roughly 250 kilograms of decayed mangoes, valued at around Rs. 20,000, were being sold both wholesale and retail. These chemically ripened mangoes were seized and subsequently destroyed at the municipal dumping ground. Additionally, notices have been issued to two shops involved.
This operation forms part of a broader effort full by the district's food safety officials to address the public health risks associated with artificially ripened fruits. Mango, being a popular fruit especially during the summer, is often subjected to chemical processes to hasten ripening, posing health risks. Authorities have warned shopkeepers that severe penalties will be enforced for artificial ripening, including seizure of such fruits and imposition of fines.
The Food Safety Department is also engaging in awareness campaigns to educate vendors on the hazards of chemical ripening and the legal consequences.