J&K admin issues advisory on artificial fruit ripening

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has issued an advisory on the artificial ripening of fruits, warning food business operators against using banned calcium carbide for this process in the Union Territory.

- PRESS TRUST OF INDIA

Consumers are also advised to remain vigilant in the market and purchase fruits only from known vendors who declare that the fruits sold have not been ripened using harmful and banned chemicals.

"We advise the food business operators (FBOs) dealing with storage, packaging, distribution, and sale of fruits and vegetables to strictly adhere to the prescribed guidelines during and after artificial ripening treatment to ensure safe and compliant ripening practices. Failing this, penal action shall be initiated," the Drug and Food Control Organisation (D&FCO) said in an advisory issued here.