Ripening Agents Used for Fruits | 14 Apr 2025

Source: TH 

Ripening of fruits is associated with the process of senescence or aging in plants. It involves changes in colour, texture, flavour, sugar content, and acidity, and is influenced by the ripening hormone ethylene. 

Artificial Fruit Ripening Agents: 

  • Calcium Carbide: It releases toxic acetylene gas and may contain phosphorus, and arsenic (a carcinogenic substance)causing severe health issues.  
    • Its usage has been banned by FSSAI under Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011. 
  • Permitted Substances: 
    • Ethylene Gas: Approved by FSSAI up to 100 ppm (parts per million); triggers natural ripening. It must be applied in controlled ripening chambers and not in direct contact with fruits. 
    • Ethephon: Releases ethylene on breakdown and  used for artificial ripening under regulated conditions. 
    • Ethereal: It is an ethylene-releasing compound used in controlled settings. 

PLANT_HORMONES