The fruit that you eat

The use of calcium carbide for artificial ripening of fruits has harmful effects on human health. In order to speed up the ripening process of fruit like mango, peach and lemon, farmers and fruit market traders extensively use calcium carbide. This substance is hazardous for health and is linked with some serious diseases including cancer, neurological diseases, intestine issues and certain other life-threatening diseases.

Although the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has taken some noticeable action in this regard, effective interventions at the large-scale are required by every province to protect the already compromised health of this nation. Those responsible for playing with the health of the people must be taken to task.

Aleem Ahmed

Islamabad