Fruit vendors under watch for violations in Hyderabad

After seizing and destroying 550 kg of fruits that were artificially ripened by placing Ethylene Cellulose wrappers near the Kothapet market area, authorities have issued an advisory on the correct practices for artificial ripening as per the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.

The Task Force on Thursday also issued notices to the three vendors



whose stock was confiscated. The Food Safety Department of the Government of Telangana reiterated that the ripening of fruits by acetylene gas, commonly known as carbide gas, is prohibited.

If found, it will be seized and a penalty of up to Rs 2 lakhs will be levied on the vendors. Giving an alternative to these practices, Ethephon in powder form was recommended.