Around 200 kg of mangoes artificially ripened using excess “Diamond Ripe” ethylene sachets were seized by police in Hyderabad’s Goshamahal area on April 3, 2026, leading to the arrest of a 32-year-old fruit trader. Officials found that the accused was using six sachets per 20 kg tray above the limit prescribed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, which allows only five.
Police have registered a case under food adulteration and public health laws, while health experts warn that such practices can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, throat irritation and breathing problems. Authorities have also urged citizens to remain vigilant while purchasing mangoes during the ongoing season.
Illegal Ripening Practices Uncovered in Market Raid
The seizure followed a targeted raid by the Goshamahal Police near Balkishan Mandir in Chudi Bazar, where officers discovered the trader using “Diamond Ripe – Ethylene Ripener” to accelerate the ripening process for commercial gain. During the operation, police confiscated around 200 kg of mangoes, along with packets and loose sachets of the chemical.
According to officials, while ethylene is permitted as a safer alternative to banned substances like calcium carbide, its use is strictly regulated. “The accused was using more chemicals than permitted to ripen mangoes quickly and make illegal profit. Such acts can put people’s health at risk,” a police official said. The trader has been booked under relevant sections related to food adulteration, cheating, and endangering public health.
Seasonal Demand Fuels Repeated Violations
The incident comes at the onset of mango season, when markets across Hyderabad are flooded with fresh produce and demand surges sharply. Authorities note that such periods often see an increase in the misuse of artificial ripening agents by traders seeking faster turnover and higher profits.
Officials have cautioned consumers against being misled by visually appealing fruit, noting that chemically ripened mangoes may appear uniformly bright yellow but can be harmful internally. Buyers have been advised to look for naturally ripened mangoes, which typically have uneven colouring and a milder aroma. Health experts warn that prolonged consumption of chemically ripened fruits may also impact respiratory health and overall well-being.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This incident underscores a recurring public health concern where profit-driven practices compromise food safety and consumer trust. While regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies are stepping up inspections, long-term change requires awareness and accountability across the supply chain from traders to consumers.
Ethical business practices must be prioritised, especially when it comes to something as fundamental as food. At the same time, consumers must be empowered with knowledge to make safer choices. As mango season brings joy to millions, how can we collectively ensure that the fruits we enjoy are not only delicious but also safe for everyone?
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#Hyderabad:
— NewsMeter (@NewsMeter_In) April 4, 2026
Around 200 kg of #mangoes #artificiallyripened using excess “#DiamondRipe” #ethylene were seized in #Goshamahal.
The trader reportedly used 6 sachets per 20 kg tray, exceeding the @fssaiindia limit of 5.
Health experts warn such mangoes may trigger #vomiting,… pic.twitter.com/oPwaNdHSNB
