News DeskTandojam,Sindh – A leading food scientist at Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) has issued a stark warning about the widespread and dangerous practice of using industrial-grade calcium carbide, locally known as “carpet,” to artificially ripen fruits and vegetables, calling it a severe public health threat.
Dr. Aasia Akbar Panhwar, Associate Professor and food safety expert at SAU Tandojam’s Institute of Food Sciences and Technology (IFST), highlighted the grave health hazards posed by this chemical. She explained that calcium carbide, commonly used in welding, reacts with moisture (including that in fruits or the air) to produce acetylene gas. While acetylene mimics ethylene (the natural ripening hormone), it is highly toxic and potentially carcinogenic.
“Calcium carbide is an industrial chemical, absolutely not safe for food use,” Dr. Panhwar emphasized. “The consumption of fruits ripened with this poison can have devastating consequences, especially for children and pregnant women.”
Dr. Panhwar detailed a range of serious health effects linked to calcium carbide-ripened produce:
- Immediate Harm: Skin burns, ulcers, and chronic skin conditions, particularly in children. Irritation and burning in the mouth, nose, throat, and respiratory tract; persistent coughing, breathing difficulties, and potential lung damage.
- Long-Term Danger: Increased risk of cancers of the lungs, mouth, and other organs due to toxic impurities like arsenic and phosphorus found in commercial calcium carbide.
- Reproductive Risks: Potential infertility and birth defects in both men and women due to hormonal disruption and general toxicity.
Dr. Panhwar stressed that the misuse of this “highly reactive and explosive” industrial chemical in the food sector constitutes a major violation of public health standards. She urgently called upon regulatory authorities to enforce an immediate ban on calcium carbide in fruit markets across Sindh and Pakistan.
Safer Alternatives & Public Advice
The food safety expert advocated for replacing calcium carbide with safe, approved methods like ethylene gas. “Ethylene gas replicates the natural ripening process without endangering consumer health,” she stated.
Dr. Panhwar also advised the public to take precautions:
- Wash Thoroughly: Always wash fruits and vegetables meticulously under running water before consumption.
- Choose Wisely: Opt for seasonal produce and look for fruits ripened naturally, whenever possible, to minimize health risks.
Her warning underscores the critical need for swift regulatory action and increased public awareness to combat this dangerous practice contaminating the food supply.
