Staff Reporter
Mapusa
The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) destroyed around 120 kilograms of mangoes on Wednesday after they were found to be treated for artificial ripening.
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said the raid was part of ongoing efforts to curb artificial ripening and ensure the safety of fruits sold to consumers.
“FDA officials inspected Stall No. 14 at Mapusa Yard and found 60 crates (approximately 120 kg) of Raigad mangoes that were treated for artificial ripening, as indicated in the vendor’s bill,” Rane stated on social media.
While the laboratory reports are awaited, the entire stock was destroyed in the public interest with the support of the Mapusa Municipality. “We commend the swift action taken by the FDA officials and remain firm in our commitment to act decisively against any malpractice,” said Rane.
FDA officials also said that restaurants in Mapusa previously shut down for hygiene violations remain closed.
Earlier this week, a major drive was conducted on Monday targeting mango wholesalers in Siolim and Mapusa. Around 180 crates of mangoes and 450 kilograms of bananas suspected to be artificially ripened were seized. Samples of various fruits were sent for chemical residue analysis, and further action will be taken based on the
results.
