In coordination with Telangana's crackdown on artificially ripened mangoes, Karnataka authorities have ramped up surveillance on fruit quality. Health department officials confirmed that mango samples from Kolar, the state's primary supply hub, are being tested for chemical residues.
"Tests for chemical traces are also being conducted on fruits from other regions sold in Bengaluru markets," an official told TOI. This follows the seizure of 200 kg of artificially ripened mangoes by enforcement teams in Hyderabad recently.
As part of broader monitoring, Karnataka's food safety teams have tested 60 watermelon samples, including 22 from Bengaluru. "They were found safe for coloring agents," officials stated. "The food safety department is also collecting samples of concentrated fruit juices to check for adulteration."
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has cautioned consumers against buying fruits with black blotches, which may indicate ripening using acetylene gas from calcium carbide. FSSAI recommends washing fruits thoroughly with potable running water before consumption.
Weather-Related Crop Losses Raise Supply Concerns
Meanwhile, supply concerns are emerging due to weather-related crop losses. Dr. M N Thimmegowda, professor and head of agrometeorology at the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, noted that yields have plummeted. "While flowering was good in November, there was no rain in March. The rise in temperature coupled with low soil moisture caused flowers to drop," he explained. "As trees conserve resources, fruits also drop when small and do not reach full growth."
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring food safety while addressing potential supply shortages.
