Fruits ripened with chemicals: Maharashtra FDA seizes 1,400 kg bananas and destroys adulterated milk

In a major crackdown against food safety violations, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has initiated strict actions across the state, inspecting various eateries, canteens, and food manufacturing units. During these raids, authorities uncovered alarming hygiene lapses, seized chemical-ripened fruits, banned tobacco products, and destroyed massive quantities of adulterated milk.

Bananas Ripened with Hazardous Chemicals Seized

According to officials, an employee was caught red-handed dipping bananas into a solution of 'Ethephon' in Navi Mumbai. Ethephon is a plant growth regulator chemical used to artificially ripen fruits quickly, but it leaves harmful toxic residues that pose severe health risks. Following this discovery, the FDA seized 1,394 kg of chemically ripened bananas valued at approximately Rs 67,814, and formal legal proceedings were initiated.

Severe Hygiene Lapses and Pests Found in Popular Eateries

During inspections across Mumbai, several prominent restaurants and food joints were found flouting basic safety norms. At 'Nom Nom Restaurant' in Borivali, food items were stored at incorrect temperatures, and flies and insects were found swarming the kitchen area. Similar unhygienic conditions, lack of segregation between raw and cooked food, and rusted baking equipment were reported from multiple outlets across the city.

Adulterated Milk Destroyed and Crackdown on Prohibited Items

In the Pune division, specifically in Malsshiras taluka of Solapur district, two cases were registered regarding milk adulterated with detergent. Approximately 16,730 liters of adulterated milk, valued at around Rs 6.69 lakh, were seized and subsequently destroyed. Additionally, banned tobacco products and gutkha worth lakhs were confiscated in Palghar. The FDA's relentless campaign aims to curb malpractices and safeguard public health.