Poison in Mangoes? Calcium Carbide Scare Sparks Panic as Hyderabad Police Issues Alert, Bengaluru Awareness Questioned

NewsFlash Daily™

04 April

Toxic mango alert grips markets as Hyderabad Police warns of chemically ripened fruits, calls grow for Bengaluru Police to launch similar awareness drive

Hyderabad: As summer ushers in the mango season across India, a serious health warning has triggered concern among consumers. The Hyderabad Police, led by Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar (IPS), has alerted the public about the danger of mangoes artificially ripened using Calcium Carbide, a chemical known to pose significant health risks.

Toxic Mangoes Flood Markets, Bengaluru Also Under Lens

With mangoes flooding markets in cities like Bengaluru, concerns are mounting that chemically ripened fruits may be widely circulating. Authorities have flagged that some traders, driven by profit, are allegedly using hazardous substances like Calcium Carbide to accelerate ripening.

The development has sparked debate over whether the Bengaluru Police should replicate Hyderabad’s proactive awareness campaign to protect consumers from potential poisoning.

“Be cautious before buying mangoes. Not all that looks golden and attractive is safe to eat,” Hyderabad Police warned in its public advisory.

Health Risks: From Nausea to Nervous System Damage

Experts and police advisories highlight that consuming chemically treated mangoes can lead to immediate and long-term health complications:

1. Sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
2. Respiratory issues and irritation
3. Long-term nervous system damage

These alarming effects have intensified calls for stricter monitoring of fruit vendors and increased public vigilance.

How to Identify Chemically Ripened Mangoes

Authorities have also shared key tips to help consumers differentiate between natural and chemically ripened mangoes:

1. Color: Uniform bright yellow color may indicate artificial ripening
2. Smell: Chemical-like odor is a warning sign
3. Baking Soda Test: Unusual color change after washing may indicate contamination
4. Organic Label: Verify authenticity before trusting ‘organic’ claims

Strict Monitoring and Public Helpline Activated

The H-FAST team of Hyderabad Police is actively monitoring traders suspected of selling adulterated fruits. Officials confirmed that strict legal action will be taken against violators endangering public health.

The department has also urged citizens to report suspicious activity immediately.

“Aware Hyderabad, Safe Hyderabad,” the police emphasized, encouraging people to report chemically treated mangoes via emergency number 100 or the H-FAST helpline.

As the warning gains traction, attention now shifts to other major cities like Bengaluru, where similar preventive measures and awareness campaigns could prove crucial in safeguarding public health during peak mango season.