Artificially ripened fruits: Health officials act tough against vendors

Tribune News Service

Patiala, June 13

The Health Department and district administration jointly conducted raids on more than 200 fruit vendors here on Wednesday. 

Under the Tandarust Punjab Mission, a large number of rotten and artificially ripened fruits were found during the raids conducted by health officials in the past few days.

On Wednesday, the raids exposed the rampant use of calcium carbide and other carcinogenic chemicals in ripen fruits. 

The health officials also collected samples of fruits and identified the vendors and agents supplying ethylene packets in the market.

The officials also destroyed rotten and artificially ripened fruits, which were found during the raid. 

The raids were conducted at Dharampura Bazar, Sheran Wala Gate, Gurbux Colony, Rajpura Colony, Leela Bhavan, Arya Samaj and Guru Nanak Nagar. 

Taking cognisance of food adulteration, Varun Roojam, Commissioner Food and Drugs Administration, has asked the authorities to initiate strict action against those who are found selling adulterated fruits or vegetables.

Jagvinder Kaur, a city resident, said, “The government should make efforts to ensure that only chemical-free fruits are sold in the market.” 

Deputy Commissioner Kumar Amit said, “Health is our top priority and we will take strict action against those who will flout norms.”