Bhubaneswar: The Food Safety Department on Friday conducted raids at around 30 banana godowns in the Laxmisagar area of Bhubaneswar following complaints of excessive use of chemicals for artificially ripening fruits.
During the raids, officials found bananas and other fruits allegedly being ripened using excessive quantities of Ethephon, a chemical permitted for artificial fruit ripening only within prescribed limits. Hundreds of bottles containing Ethephon were reportedly seized from the godowns along with bananas.
Officials said complaints had been repeatedly received about the excessive and unregulated use of chemicals to ripen fruits before they were supplied to the market. The latest raids were carried out as part of efforts to check such practices and ensure compliance with food safety norms.
The Food Safety Department is expected to examine the seized chemical substances and fruits and initiate action against those found violating the prescribed regulations.
