Don't Be Fooled by Shiny Mangoes Widely Available in the Market

Source: Hyderabad Commissioner of Police VC Sajjanar, IPS - 3rd April 2026

The "king of fruits" is back on our plates, but people are advised to exercise caution and avoid being misled by chemically ripened mangoes. They should also be wary of those sold under the label of "organic". Consumers are urged to verify the authenticity of the produce before making a purchase.

The Deadly Danger Behind Mouth-Watering Mangoes

With the onset of summer, the mango has begun to flood the markets. However, citizens must not overlook the deadly danger lurking behind these mouth-watering fruits. Driven by a greed for profit, some unscrupulous traders are risking public lives.

Instead of allowing mangoes to ripen Organically, they are being artificially ripened using Calcium Carbide and other hazardous chemicals. Purchasing fruits solely because they look shiny and golden on roadside stalls is essentially inviting illness into your home.

Health Risks of Chemically Ripened Mangoes

Medical experts warn that consuming chemically ripened fruits can lead to:

• ✕ Immediate throat irritation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea
• ✕ Nervous system damage with prolonged exposure
• ✕ Respiratory problems and severe complications
• ✕ Long-term health complications for children and elderly

How to Identify Toxic Mangoes

Consumers are advised to remain vigilant and look out for the following signs:

• 🔴 Avoid being misled by the shiny, uniformly yellow appearance of mangoes commonly sold at roadside stalls
• 🔴 Organically ripened mangoes typically have uneven colouration - they won't look "perfect"
• 🔴 Chemically ripened ones appear bright yellow externally but may be raw inside
• 🔴 Presence of a chemical smell or unusual taste is a warning sign
• 🔴 Spots on the skin or abnormal colour changes after washing with baking soda water indicate contamination

Question "Organic" Labels

Authorities also urged caution while purchasing fruits labelled as "organic", advising buyers to verify authenticity before making a purchase. Not everything labelled "organic" is truly Organic.

Police Crackdown on Toxic Mangoes

The Hyderabad City Police is already taking a stern stand against such traders who play with public health. The H-FAST (Hyderabad Food Adulteration Safety Team) is maintaining a strict vigil on the sale of adulterated mangoes, and legal action is being initiated against those who violate the rules.

Citizens are encouraged to report any suspected sale of chemically ripened mangoes. Complaints can be lodged by dialling 100 or contacting the H-FAST helpline at 8712661212.

Commissioner's Official Letter

Below is the signed letter by Commissioner of Police VC Sajjanar, IPS, Hyderabad City:

Source: NewsMeter