Ripe mangoes have just started reaching the market. In this season mangoes are ripened artificially for commercial purposes, and many dishonest traders sell artificially ripened mangoes cheaply as ripe fruit. Many people eat them and unknowingly put their health at risk.
Many buyers judge a mango ripe by its colour and smell, though it may contain chemicals. Such mangoes can cause several health problems.
The most common side effects of eating chemically ripened mangoes are vomiting, diarrhoea, sometimes with blood, extreme weakness, an acidity-like sensation in the chest and headache.
In some cases the chemicals in the mango can react aggressively in the body. There is a risk of skin ulcers and eye damage, and throat problems such as difficulty swallowing and a burning sensation. The eyes may also burn.
Other side effects to watch for
Apart from the direct side effects, symptoms such as cough, sores and breathing difficulty can appear. If you have trouble breathing right after eating mangoes, see a doctor without delay.
Hypoxia
Hypoxia is a common side effect of eating chemically ripened mangoes. It is a condition in which not enough oxygen reaches the tissues, and it occurs when the oxygen level in the blood falls.
Hypoxia has some distinct symptoms, such as dizziness, drowsiness, memory loss, numbness in the legs, low blood pressure and seizures.
Which chemicals are used to ripen mangoes?
Calcium carbide is usually used to ripen mangoes. Ethephon, a plant growth regulator, is also used. These chemicals produce acetylene, which makes the mango ripen quickly, ahead of its natural time.
The minerals and nutrients in chemically ripened mangoes are completely destroyed, and the fruit fills with toxic elements such as arsenic and phosphorus.
How to buy naturally ripened mangoes
- Natural mangoes have a characteristic aroma and taste that they get from the tree. Artificially ripened mangoes have a sharp taste, mostly caused by the chemicals.
- So do not buy fruit before its season. Do not buy fruit that appears before the season starts or after it has ended.
Adapted from The Times of India.
Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.
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