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Physico-chemical properties and toxic effect of fruit-ripening agent calcium carbide
Abstract
Ripening is the final stage of the maturation process, when the fruit changes color, softens and develops the flavor, texture and aroma that constitute optimum eating quality. This study was conducted to discuss the use of unsatisfactory calcium carbide to ripen fruits for domestic markets as well as their toxic effects on human health. The commonly used ripening agents are calcium carbide, acetylene, ethylene, propylene, ethrel (2-chloroethyl phosphonic acid), glycol, ethanol and some other agents. The calcium carbide is one of the most commonly used ripening agent for fruits, while other calcium salts like calcium ammonium nitrate, calcium chloride and calcium sulfate are used to delay fruit ripening agents for local fruit industries. The use of calcium carbide is being discouraged worldwide, due to associated health hazards. Calcium carbide treatment of food is extremely hazardous because it contains traces of arsenic and phosphorous, and once dissolved in water, it produces acetylene gas. Arsenic, phosphorous and acetylene gas may affect the different body organs and causes various health problems like headache, dizziness, mood disturbances, sleepiness, mental confusion, memory loss, cerebral edema, seizures and prolonged hypoxia.
... In contact with moisture, CaC2 produces acetylene gas [6], which is an analog of ethylene, and is used to ripen fruits artificially [7]. The use of carbide gas or acetylene gas is not permitted for artificial ripening of fruits under Food Safety and Standards Regulations (2011) due to its potential health hazards [8]. ...
... The use of carbide gas or acetylene gas is not permitted for artificial ripening of fruits under Food Safety and Standards Regulations (2011) due to its potential health hazards [8]. Moreover, fruits artificially ripened by CaC2 also contains traces of arsenic and phosphorus, which are also harmful for human health [6,9]. Acetylene gas may affect the neurological system by inducing prolonged hypoxia [10]. ...
... There are chances that calcium carbide may leave residues of arsenic and phosphorus on fruits which is harmful for humans. The early symptoms of arsenic or phosphorous poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea with or without blood, burning sensation of chest and abdomen, thirst, weakness, difficulty in swallowing, irritation or burning in the eyes and skin, permanent eye damage, ulcers on the skin, sore throat, cough and shortness of breath [6]. Consumption of fruits ripened with Calcium carbide causes stomach upset. ...
The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in several haematological and histopathological parameters in male Swiss albino mice fed on diets with calcium carbide-ripened banana. Fruits were collected from Khahigarh village, located in Raha subdivision of Nagaon district in Assam, and were artificially ripened using calcium carbide. The calcium carbide ripened banana was fed to albino mice, two times in a day for 14 consecutive days. Naturally ripened banana was used as positive control, and treated same way in another group of mice. The results showed that calcium carbide ripened banana induced significant decrease in RBCs count and Haemoglobin concentration; and significant increase in the WBCs. Histopathological observations of liver, kidney and testes also revealed the hazardous effect of the chemical. However, no genotoxic effect was observed with the chemical. The results suggest that consumption of banana ripened with calcium carbide can lower the body’s ability to resist some alterations of normal functions.
... Ripening is the final stage of the maturation process of fruits, when a fruit changes color, softens and develops the flavor, texture, and aroma which constitute the optimum eating quality [13]. In nature, fruits ripen after attainment of the proper maturity by a sequence of physiological and biochemical events, and thus the process is irreversible. ...
... The heavy exposure to calcium carbide also poses carcinogenic risk to different organs, including liver, kidney, lung, and intestine and it might weaken the immune system [22][23][24]. In addition, calcium carbide contains traces of arsenic and phosphorous, and once dissolved in water, it produces acetylene gas [13]. Acetylene is a mild asphyxiant and its acute exposure may cause dizziness, headache, fatigue, tachycardia, tachypnoea, nausea, and vomiting; while in high concentrations, it could cause loss of consciousness and death [25]. ...
... However, the elemental analysis of fruits' peel for calcium content would be misleading and an incorrect index for calcium carbide residue because fruits naturally contain calcium. Arsenic and phosphorous-often as arsine (AsH3) and phosphine (PH3) or calcium phosphide (Ca3P2)-are usually present in calcium carbide as impurities [13,30]. These impurities might find entry into calcium carbide-ripened fruits and may be determined as estimates for calcium carbide residue. ...
Fruits are important worldwide due to their nutritional,
commercial, and nutraceutical values. Doubtless, the increased
demand for fruits is instrumental in the use of various artificial
ripening methods in their production. The most frequently
applied chemical for this purpose is calcium carbide (CaC2).
However, due to its toxicity, the use of calcium carbide in fruit
ripening has been banned in many countries, including Nigeria.
Despite its limitations, calcium carbide is still illegally used in
artificial ripening of fruits and this has elicited great health
concerns. Currently, there is little scientific data on the
investigation of calcium carbide residue of fruits marketed in
Nigeria. This article gives an outline of calcium carbide, its use
in fruit ripening and possible health implications. It further
identifies arsenic index as a marker for quantifying residue in
suspected calcium carbide-ripened fruits.
... Persistent use of calcium carbide as artificial ripening agent despite various criticisms informed the need to investigate its effect on some important nutritional components of the plantains and bananas fruits.Mature but unripe plantain and banana samples were harvested; each divided into two bunches (a set each kept to ripen naturally and the other conditioned to ripe using calcium carbide).When fully ripped, the protein and some selected vitamins and mineral contents of the plantains and bananas fruits were analyzed using standard methods.Resultsshowed a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the protein content of the carbide-induced ripped plantain when compared to naturally ripped ones, while the same reduction observed in bananas was not statistically significant (p >0.05). In the same vein,vitamins A and C were found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05) in both naturally ripped plantainsand bananaswhile the reverse was the case for vitamin B 6 where the values for the forced ripped was statistically higher than that of the naturally ripped in both plantains and banana (p < 0.05).However, the variations in the mineral compositions among the treatments were not statistically significant(p >0.05).These reductions in the concentrations in both protein and some selected vitamins underscore the need to avoid the use of calcium carbide as a ripening agent in order tomaximize the nutritional outputs of plantains and bananas. ...
... Unlike bananas, plantains are almost always cooked before eating [2]; [3]; [4].The distinction is purely arbitrary as the terms" plantain and banana" are sometimes interchangeable depending on their usage. Musa species are native to tropical south and Southeast Asia, and are likely to have been first domesticated in Papua New Guinea [5] but today they are cultured throughout the tropics [6]. Bananas and plantains are perennial crops and thrive in a wide range of environments [7]. ...
... Values for vitamin A in plantain were 2.103 0.133µg/g. and 3.483 ± 0.226 µg/g for forced and natural ripening processes respectively, while for banana 0.903 ± 0.042µg/g and 1.770 ± 0.082µg/g were recorded as shown in fig. 2 For plantain, when forced to ripe had values of 0.133 ± 0.045mg/100g for vitamin B 6 and 0.103 ± 0.045mg/100g when naturally ripped, while for banana, the values were 0.077 ± 0.025mg/100g and 0.047 ± 0.025mg/100g respectively ( fig.3) The values for vitamin C in plantains with forced and natural ripening treatments were 30.533 ± 1.665mg/g and 46.533 ± 0.833mg/g respectively, while for banana the values were 12.000 ± 0.400mg/g and 19.467 ± 0.611mg/g respectively as shown in fig. 4. fig.6. ...
Persistent use of calcium carbide as artificial ripening agent despite various criticisms informed the need to investigate its effect on some important nutritional components of the plantains and bananas fruits.Mature but unripe plantain and banana samples were harvested; each divided into two bunches (a set each kept to ripen naturally and the other conditioned to ripe using calcium carbide).When fully ripped, the protein and some selected vitamins and mineral contents of the plantains and bananas fruits were analyzed using standard methods.Resultsshowed a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the protein content of the carbide-induced ripped plantain when compared to naturally ripped ones, while the same reduction observed in bananas was not statistically significant (p >0.05). In the same vein,vitamins A and C were found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05) in both naturally ripped plantainsand bananaswhile the reverse was the case for vitamin B 6 where the values for the forced ripped was statistically higher than that of the naturally ripped in both plantains and banana (p < 0.05).However, the variations in the mineral compositions among the treatments were not statistically significant(p >0.05).These reductions in the concentrations in both protein and some selected vitamins underscore the need to avoid the use of calcium carbide as a ripening agent in order tomaximize the nutritional outputs of plantains and bananas.
... Es un material incoloro, pero la mayoría de las muestras van de un color negro o grisáceo. Se produce carburo de calcio industrialmente en un horno de arco eléctrico de una mezcla de cal y coque a 2000 °C (Asif, 2012). ...
... Es el resultado del carburo de calcio cuando se hidroliza. La reacción fue descubierta por Friedrich Wohler en 1862 (Asif, 2012). ...
El objetivo del presente artículo es difundir información técnica sobre el comportamiento del peso vivo (PV) de la cabra criolla Chusca Lojana en relación con la edad, basándonos para ello en el estudio de la cronometría dentaria de estos animales desde el nacimiento hasta una edad de 7 años.
... Caronda, ber and Aonla candies have also been developed. Candied products available these days are descended from the simplest confections first made more than 4,000 years ago" [1, [6][7][8][9]. ...
... The maximum score for Overall acceptability in cherry candy was recorded in T 2 (Application of CaCl2 @1.5mg/100g + 70 ºBrix sugar) with 7.60 followed by T 7 (Application of Citric Acid @ 2mg/100g + 70 ºBrix sugar) with 7.40 and the minimum was recorded in T 0 (Control) with 6 It is evident that the economics of different treatment was influenced by different treatments at all successive stage of storage. There was significant differences between the economics of treatments, among the treatment used T 2 (Application of CaCl2 @1.5 mg/100 g + 70 ºBrix sugar) with 1.82 have the highest benefit cost ratio followed by T 7 (Application of Citric Acid @ 2mg/100g + 70 ºBrix sugar) with 1.69 of were significantly superior than T 0 (Control) with 1.42. ...
Candy processing is essential to create a wide variety of delicious and appealing treats, ensuring quality control, flavor consistency, and efficient production for consumer enjoyment. The present experiment was carried out during 2022-23 in Post Harvest Laboratory of Department of Horticulture, SHUATS, Prayagraj. The experiment was conducted in Completely Randomized Design with 8 treatment replicated thrice. The treatments were T0 (Control), T1 (Application of CaCl2 @1% +70 ºBrix sugar), T2(Application of CaCl2 @1.5% + 70 ºBrix sugar), T3 (Application of CaCl2 @ 2%+ 70 ºBrix sugar), T4 (Application of Erythrosine @0.05%+ 70 ºBrix sugar), T5 (Application of Citric Acid @ 1%+ 70 ºBrix sugar), T6 (Application of Citric Acid @ 1.5%+ 70 ºBrix sugar), T7 (Application of Citric Acid @ 2% + 70 ºBrix sugar). On the basis of our experimental finding it was found that the treatment T2 (Application of CaCl2 @1.5 mg/100 g + 70 ºBrix sugar) was found to be best in the terms of TSS, Total sugar, Reducing sugar, Moisture content, Ascorbic acid, pH, Acidity %, Taste, Color and appearance, aroma, texture, overall acceptability and benefit cost ratio.
... Es un material incoloro, pero la mayoría de las muestras van de un color negro o grisáceo. Se produce carburo de calcio industrialmente en un horno de arco eléctrico de una mezcla de cal y coque a 2000 °C (Asif, 2012). ...
... Es el resultado del carburo de calcio cuando se hidroliza. La reacción fue descubierta por Friedrich Wohler en 1862 (Asif, 2012). ...
La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo valorar los parámetros físicos, químicos en la maduración artificial de papaya (Carica papaya L.) variedad hawaiana, usando el acetiluro de calcio CaC2 como agente de maduración. Se aplicó un diseño completamente al azar con arreglo bifactorial AxB. Para la determinación de diferencias se utilizó la prueba de rangos múltiples de Tukey al 5 % de probabilidad. Se analizaron variables fisicoquímicas (textura, pH, brix, acidez) y variables bromatológicas (humedad, cenizas, proteína, fibra, energía). Los resultados del análisis fisicoquímico demostraron que existieron diferencias significativas: en la variable textura la mejor respuesta fue el tratamiento T6 con (1.80 kg/f); el pH, con los tratamientos T1 (5.76), T4 (5.42) y T6 (5.54); brix, con los tratamientos T4 y T6 con 10.07 y 12.40 %; acidez, con el tratamiento T6 con el valor más bajo con 0.8 %; a nivel de humedad, el mejor tratamiento fue el T6 con 92.22 %; ceniza, el T1 con el valor más bajo 3.20 %; proteína, los tratamientos T5 y T6 con 4.34 y 5.34 %; fibra presenta una leve disminución, siendo su mejor tratamiento el T6 con 1.42 %, y energía, con el T6, 0.87 kcal. Los valores registrados en este estudio son comparables a otras investigaciones similares, ajustándose a los parámetros establecidos.
Pagina : 416-429
... Kerusakan tersebut sangat tidak sesuai dengan minat pasar yang tinggi terhadap buah pisang (Prabawati, 2008). Selain itu, penggunaan kalsium karbida (karbid) saat ini sudah berkurang terutama di negara-negara maju karena dapat membahayakan bagi kesehatan disebabkan racun arsenik dan phosphorus yang terkandung didalamnya (Asif, 2012). ...
... Klimaterik merupakan suatu keadaan auto stimulation dari dalam buah sehingga buah menjadi matang yang disertai dengan adanya peningkatan proses respirasi (Prabawati, 2008). Buah klimaterik menghasilkan lebih banyak etilen pada saat matang dan mempercepat serta lebih seragam tingkat kematangannya pada saat pemberian etilen (Asif, 2012). Buah klimaterik hanya akan mengadakan reaksi respirasi apabila etilen diberikan dalam tingkat pra klimaterik dan tidak peka lagi terhadap etilen setelah kenaikan respirasi dimulai (Zuhairini, 1997 dengan judul "Pengaruh Pemeraman menggunakan Batu Karbit (CaC 2 ) terhadap sifat Fisik dan Kimia Buah Pisang Ambon (Musa Paradisiaca var. ...
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh waktu dan jenis kertaspembungkus pada pemeraman buah pisang ambon (Musa paradisiaca var. sapientumL) terhadap kualitas sifat organoleptik dan kimia. Jenis penelitian yang dilakukanadalah eksperimental dengan menggunakan rancangan penelitian yaitu RAK(Rancangan Acak Kelompok). Jenis pisang yang digunakan dalam penelitian iniadalah pisang ambon kuning dengan 1 kontrol dan 2 perlakuan, berupa pisang ambonyang diperam menggunakan kertas kraft polos dan kertas kraft bertinta sebesar 20%dari berat pisang. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa lama pemeraman terdapat pengaruh yangnyata (p<0,05) terhadap sifat kimia yaitu vitamin C dan gula reduksi. Kadar VitaminC dan gula reduksi meningkat selama proses pemeraman, nilai tertinggi terdapatpada hari ke-5 pemeraaman yaitu 84,48 mg untuk vitamin C dan 5,90% untuk gulareduksi. Pada jenis kertas pembungkus terdapat pengaruh yang nyata (p<0,05)terhadap sifat kimia yaitu vitamin C dan gula reduksi. Jenis kertas pembungkusbertinta dapat mempercepat proses pematangan. Uji organoleptik (rasa, aroma,warna, tekstur) yang paling banyak disukai panelis adalah buah pisang ambon kuningdengan media pemeraman kertas bertinta.
... In addition, it also contains impurities of arsenic and phosphorous compounds that are relatively toxic to human and animals [5,6]. The growing awareness of fruit safety in regard to chemical exposure has awakened research about hazards in regard to contamination with CaC 2 and a repertoire of other chemicals used in fruit ripening process [7,8]. Furthermore, CaC 2 is inappropriately used to chemically induce fruit ripening in many countries [9]. ...
... This study reports clear evidence for CaC 2 -driven derangement of hematopoiesis. Reduction in PCV has been associated with oxidative stress and impaired osmoregulation [8]. In the current study, a significant CaC 2 -driven decrease in PCV was noted. ...
Background
Calcium carbide (CaC 2 ) is a chemical primarily used in the production of acetylene gas. The misuse of CaC 2 to induce fruit ripening is a global challenge with a potential adverse effects to human health. Additionally, CaC 2 is known to contain some reasonable amount of arsenic and phosphorous compounds that are toxic and pose a danger to human health when ingested. The current study sought to characterize CaC 2 toxicity and elucidate any protective effects by cyanocobalamin (vitamin B 12 ), a well-established antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bio-molecule. Female Swiss white mice were randomly assigned into three groups; the first group was the control, while the second group was administered with CaC 2 . The third group received CaC 2 followed by administration of vitamin B12. The mice were sacrificed at 60 days post treatment, hematological, biochemical, glutathione assay, cytokine ELISA and standard histopathology was performed.
Results
CaC 2 administration did not significantly alter the mice body weight. CaC 2 administration resulted in a significant decrease in packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBCs) and RBC indices; indicative of CaC 2 -driven normochromic microcytic anaemia. Further analysis showed CaC 2 -driven leukopenia. Evidently, vitamin B 12 blocked CaC 2 -driven suppression of PCV, Hb, RBCs and WBCs. Monocytes and neutrophils were significantly up-regulated by CaC 2 . CaC 2 -induced elevation of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and bilirubin signaled significant liver damage. Notably, vitamin B 12 stabilized AST, ALT and bilirubin in the presence of CaC 2, an indication of a protective effect. Histopathological analysis depicted that vitamin B 12 ameliorated CaC 2 -driven liver and kidney injury. CaC 2 resulted in the depletion of glutathione (GSH) levels in the liver; while in the brain, kidney and lungs, the GSH levels were elevated. CaC 2 administration resulted in elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ. Vitamin B 12 assuaged the CaC 2 -induced elevation of these pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Conclusions
These findings demonstrate for the first time that oral supplementation with vitamin B 12 can protect mice against CaC 2 -mediated toxicity, inflammation and oxidative stress. The findings provide vital tools for forensic and diagnostic indicators for harmful CaC 2 exposure; while providing useful insights into how vitamin B 12 can be explored further as an adjunct therapy for CaC 2 toxicity.
... We noted that unsafe chemicals used to ripen fruits artificially might discourage some people from taking certain fruits. Chemicals such as calcium carbide, sometimes used to induce premature ripening, are injurious to health (Asif, 2012). These chemicals are linked to various health hazards like headache, dizziness, mood disturbances, sleepiness, mental confusion, memory loss, cerebral oedema, and seizures (Asif, 2012). ...
... Chemicals such as calcium carbide, sometimes used to induce premature ripening, are injurious to health (Asif, 2012). These chemicals are linked to various health hazards like headache, dizziness, mood disturbances, sleepiness, mental confusion, memory loss, cerebral oedema, and seizures (Asif, 2012). This product has been banned in several developed and developing countries, including the USA and India. ...
Background:
Inadequate consumption of fruit and vegetable is a risk factor for morbidity and mortality associated with non-communicable diseases (NCDs). An understanding of the barriers and facilitators to consumption is important for effectiveness of intervention in Africa. We present insights among church members before developing a church-based multi-component intervention to address the inadequate consumption of fruit and vegetable.
Methods:
We conducted eighteen focus group discussions among 163 church members. All discussions were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim, and were analyzed for thematic content.
Results:
We identified five main themes; Personal: awareness and knowledge of benefits, choice, habits, and curiosity, dietary restrictions and gastrointestinal symptoms following fruit and vegetable consumption. Familial: practices promoting the ready availability of fruit and vegetables in the home or habits that encourage children to eat vegetables as they transition into adulthood, pre-existing health problems of family members and the long preparation time of some traditional vegetables. Socio-cultural: Cultural practices that encourage F&V consumption, the high cost of fruits and vegetables, alternatives foregone, and cultural taboos. Environmental: inadequate farmland and storage facilities, seasonality of several fruit and vegetables, and sharp practices of force-ripening with chemicals. Church-related: inadequate space provided by the church for arable cultivation and lack of knowledge of the benefits among church leaders, church activities that involve serving fruits and vegetables and the biblical support for the consumption of fruits and vegetables.
Conclusion:
It is essential to leverage practices that promote fruit and vegetable intake and address barriers mentioned by the participants when designing such interventions.
... In contact with moisture, CaC 2 produces acetylene gas, an analog of ethylene, and mimics its functions as a natural fruit ripening plant hormone (Fig. 1). Although CaC 2 quickens the fruit ripening process (Asif, 2012;Dhembare, 2013), it has several adverse effects on fruits. In some cases, only the skin/epicarp of the fruit changes color, whereas its mesocarp and pericarp remain green and raw. ...
... As stated previously, the majority of the prolonged and lifethreatening toxicity of CaC 2 is the presence of the hazardous chemical in it. The report that CaC 2 contains Arsenic and phosphorus (Asif, 2012) automatically renders food ripened, processed or stored with it poisonous. In this section, the potential mechanisms by which Arsenic, the major impurity in commercial CaC 2 -induce toxicity, shall be critically assessed. ...
The global increase in the demand for ripe fruits has induced unhealthy use of toxic chemicals in fruit ripening. One of such chemicals in common use is calcium carbide (CaC2). Due to its nature, commercial CaC2 is consistently found to contain impurities such as Arsenic and other toxic and carcinogenic chemicals. Few studies have only reported acute associative effects of CaC2, whereas there is only sparse evidence of its chronic and long-term impact. This article reviewed all the information on the nature of commercial CaC2 used for food processing. Meanwhile, all reports on the acute effects of CaC2, such as skin burns, skin irritations and inflammation, were summarized. Despite reported acute cases, an increase in commercial CaC2 for fruit ripening has been reported in recent times, especially in developing countries, as many vendors may consider the toxic effects/risks as negligible. Therefore, this study highlighted the paucity in research studies on the chronic impact of commercial CaC2 while proposing possible mechanisms for CaC2 induction of cancer, cardiovascular dysfunction, diabetic mellitus and others. Furthermore, suggestions on further studies to unravel the chronic impacts of CaC2 on health and recommendations for viable alternatives of fruit ripening with minimal or zero toxicity were proffered. Finally, other suggestions such as improving CaC2 detection technologies and innovative grassroots educational programs will strengthen national and international agencies to enforce restrictions on the illicit use of the toxicant for fruit ripening.
... [6] Calcium carbide (CaC 2 ) is one of the common chemicals used to ripen fruits (banana). [7] This chemical mimics a ripening hormone ethylene that induces the natural process of maturation. [6] Calcium carbide in contact with moisture produces acetylene which is an analogue of natural ripening hormone. ...
... [6] Calcium carbide in contact with moisture produces acetylene which is an analogue of natural ripening hormone. [7,8] Calcium carbide also contains trace amounts of toxic arsenic and phosphorous that makes the healthy fruits poisonous. [8] Study has shown that calcium carbide affects the nutritional values of banana. ...
The study was aimed at investigating mechanism of impairment of white blood cell profile in male Wistar rats
orally administered Calcium Carbide (CaC
2) ripened banana (Musa spp). Twenty five (25) male Wistar rats
weighing 150g
– 210g were randomly divided into five (5) groups: Group 1 (control) received 2ml of distilled
H
2O; Group 2 received 2ml of naturally ripened banana, Group 3, 4. & 5 received 2ml of 5g/kg of CaC2, 15g/kg of
CaC2, and 25g/kg of CaC2 ripened banana respectively. All administration was done orally for 28days. Thereafter
blood samples were collected from the animals for laboratory assays. The samples were assayed for white blood
cell profile and leukocyte promoting factors (leukopoietin, interleukin -3(IL-3), and prostaglandins). Results
showed significant dose dependent decrease in leukocyte promoting factors: leukopoietin (Figure 1), interleukin -3
(Figure 2) and prostaglandin (Figure 3) when compared to Group 1 and Group 2, P<0.05. It also showed dose
dependent significant reduction in white blood cell profile (Total WBC count, and WBC differential count)
(Table1) when compared to Group 1 and Group 2, P<0.05. Conclusively, this study suggests that Calcium Carbide
(CaC2) ripened banana causes impairment of white blood cell profile by decreasing leukocyte promoting factors;
leukopoietin, interleukin -3(IL-3), and prostaglandins- E2 (PGE2)
... While CaC 2 is still commonly used, concerns persist regarding its detrimental effects on fruit quality, nutritional integrity, and potential health hazards, including toxicity and metabolic disorders. Previous studies (Asif 2012;Ganneru et al. 2019;Iheagwam et al. 2019;Laryea et al. 2024;Sogo-Temi et al. 2014) corroborate our findings, which consistently demonstrate that CaC 2 treatment negatively impacts key quality parameters such as TSS, TA, pH, and ascorbic acid in ripened fruits. ...
Mango fruits (Mangifera indica L.) significantly contribute to dietary diversity and economic growth, especially in East Asian regions. This study assessed the safety, quality, and nutritional impact of various ripening agents on mangoes commonly used in Pakistan, focusing on their biochemical properties, nutrient composition, and contamination by potentially toxic elements (PTEs). Mangoes were ripened naturally (control) or artificially by using commercial-grade calcium carbide (CaC2), commercially available ethylene ripener sachets, or ethylene gas from a gas generator. Mangoes ripened with CaC2 exhibited the highest total soluble solid/titratable acidity ratio and lowest ascorbic acid (vitamin C) levels, indicating inferior quality compared with ethylene gas or naturally ripened mangoes. CaC2-ripened mangoes also had the lowest percentages of moisture, protein, and carbohydrates along with the highest ash and fiber contents, while ethylene gas-treated mangoes retained nutrient composition closer to the control group (naturally ripened). PTE analysis indicated elevated mean levels of arsenic (As) and lead (Pb) in mangoes ripened by commercial CaC2 and ethylene ripener sachets, exceeding maximum levels internationally recommended. Hazard quotient and cancer risk (CR) values for PTE in mangoes from all treatments were below reference limits, except for fruits ripened with CaC2, which presented a CR value of 1.4 × 10−3 for As. This value exceeded the acceptable upper limit (1.0 × 10−4) of CR for PTE, thus indicating a potential carcinogenic risk for As through the consumption of mangoes ripened with CaC2. These findings underscore the need for strict food safety regulations in Pakistan and the development of safer ripening alternatives for in-transit fruit handling.
... Calcium carbide decomposes in water forming highly flammable acetylene gas, a reaction discovered by friedrich Wöhler in 1862. This property of calcium carbide is utilised in fruit ripening industry to hasten the fruit ripening process (Asif, 2012;Bini, Rajesh and Babu, 2022;Okeke et al., 2022). These chemically forced ripening not only minimizes the nutritive values of fruits but also makes the fruits toxic and increases the risk of health complications (Andrew et al., 2018;Cissé et al., 2020;Okeke et al., 2022). ...
Pulmonary disorders are established consequence of air pollution. Emissions from vehicles, factories and combustion of biomass are major contributors to air pollution. Accumulation of pollutants in lungs develops several respiratory diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Persistent inflammation due to long term exposure to toxicants causes permanent pulmonary tissue damage and often arises serious medical emergency. Calcium carbide (CaC2) and its byproduct acetylene have been recognized as potential environmental toxicant. It is widely used in various commercial fields including fruit ripening and welding, cutting industries. In the present study we have investigated the inflammatory status and its consequences on lungs during inhalation of CaC2 generated toxicants by mimicking similar situation of people who occupationally get exposed with the same. After 40 days of exposure by calcium carbide generated gas, real-time qPCR has been performed to investigate the level of Cox2 and PGES mRNA. Apoptosis and TH17 as well as Treg percentage have been estimated flow cytometrically. Levels of Cox2 and PGES have been found to increase with the increase in CaC2 exposure. Apoptotic cell percentage has been declined with increasing dose of toxicant. TH17 and Treg cell percentage reduced as the dose of toxicant increased, indicating a balance between the two at 7gm CaC2 exposure. Balance between inflammatory and anti-inflammatory condition of lung tissue has been attempted after chronic CaC2 exposure, but it has been disrupted at the highest level likely due to accumulation of damaged cells as reflected by the spike of Cox2 mRNA level in 7gm CaC2 exposure.
... This method, while efficient, may introduce harmful substances into the fruit, such as phosphine, and negatively impact the fruit's nutritional composition (Islamiyat et al., 2016). Several studies have highlighted the adverse effects of calcium carbide on the quality and safety of ripened fruits, including potential toxicities and nutrient degradation (Asif, 2012;Igbinaduwa et al., 2022). Despite these risks, calcium carbide remains widely used in many countries, including Nigeria, due to a lack of regulatory enforcement and consumer awareness (Ibeachu and Nwidobie). ...
The use of artificial ripening agents, particularly calcium carbide, in fruits such as bananas has raised concerns about their impact on nutritional quality. This study compared the phytochemical composition, proximate analysis, and heavy metal contamination of naturally ripened (NR) and calcium carbide-ripened (CR) bananas and analysed the adverse risk associated with the consumption of calcium carbide -ripened bananas. Mature unripe bananas obtained from the Institute of Agricultural Research and Development (IARD) were divided into two groups: one ripened naturally (NR) at room temperature and the other ripened using calcium carbide (CR). Phytochemical analysis detected phenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and terpenoids in both groups, but with significant differences in concentration. Notably, cyanogenic glycoside and oxalate levels were higher in CR bananas (7.0 × 10⁻⁴% and 1.82%, respectively) compared to NR bananas (6.0 × 10⁻⁴% and 0.50%). Additionally, NR bananas showed higher concentrations of flavonoids (11.64%), alkaloids (4.50%), saponins (9.84%), and tannins (7.5 × 10⁻4%), indicative of high antioxidant properties. In contrast, CR bananas had reduced levels of these compounds (10.22%, 4.2%, 6.41%, and 3.16 × 10⁻4% respectively), suggesting decreased antioxidant potential. Proximate analysis revealed that CR bananas had higher moisture content (82.05%) compared to NR bananas (79.83%). However, NR bananas contained higher levels of protein (1.88%), carbohydrate (19.68%), and fiber (2.40%). Heavy metal analysis identified elevated phosphorus levels in CR bananas (184.5 ppm), exceeding the FAO's permissible limits (80–120 ppm). In conclusion, our findings highlight the potential nutritional compromises and safety risks associated with calcium carbide-ripened bananas. The study emphasizes the need for strict regulation of artificial ripening agents to protect consumer health.
... However, the most common methods of artificial ripening is the use of calcium carbide (CaC2), particularly in developing countries. When CaC2 comes into contact with moisture, it generates acetylene gas, an analog of ethylene, which accelerates the ripening process [9,10]. Although artificial ripening with CaC2 has been effective and inexpensive, it does raises concerns due to potential health risks associated with the presence of chemical residues such as arsenic and phosphorus hydride on treated fruits [11,12,13]. ...
Bananas are widely consumed fruits that are often subjected to artificial ripening to accelerate their marketability for economic gains. Calcium carbide (CaC2) is most commonly used as ripening agent, particularly in developing countries, due to its low cost and effectiveness. However, the use of CaC2 has raised concerns about its potential impact on the safety and nutritional quality of the treated fruits. Assessment of the impact of this practice on the nutritional value of banana is key to improving its functionality and maximize its nutriture. This study was undertaken to examine the effect of post-harvest treatment of banana with calcium carbide agent on nutrient composition and antioxidant enzymes of the pulp. Mature green bananas were separated into fingers of the same size and divided into 4 groups. Group I was untreated and unripen while groups II and III were CaC2-treated at 4g/kg and 8g/kg of fruit respectively. Group IV underwent natural ripening. Proximate composition, sensory evaluation and antioxidant enzyme analyses were carried on the samples after the treatment period following standard procedures. The results show that calcium carbide used at 4g/kg and 8g/kg tilted sensory properties of banana pulp towards low values but not significantly (p > 0.05). On the other hand, there was significant difference (p < 0.05) in the proximate composition of the artificially ripened banana compared to control bananas. Similarly, the levels of essential minerals decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in treated groups II and III compared with group 4. Furthermore, the results of antioxidant enzyme activities indicated that calcium carbide treatment compromised the levels of all the antioxidant enzymes analysed as their concentrations significantly decreased (P < 0.05) from 3.42 to 1.65 U/mL; 32.79 to 22.73 U/mL and 0.68 to 0.28 U/mL for peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase and catalase respectively. These findings have shown how the nutritional composition as well as antioxidant potential of banana could be compromised if the use of chemical ripening agents such as calcium carbide continues unabated.
... However, the application of calcium carbide is still widely conducted without regard to the optimal dosage. The use of this chemical in excessive doses can have an adverse effect on health conditions such as headaches, cerebral edema, seizures and prolonged hypoxia (Asif, 2012;Shaeda et al., 2018). ...
... Kalsium Karbida (CaC2) atau yang lebih dikenal dengan sebutan karbit dapat menghasilkan gas asetilen yang bersifat serupa dengan gas etilen yang dapat digunakan untuk mempercepat proses pematangan buah secara buatan [3], [7]. Namun dari hasil penelitian, pada buah yang dimatangkan dengan karbit terdeteksi unsur logam berat berbahaya, seperti fosfor dan arsenik, pada kulit dan daging buah [8], [9], sehingga mengkonsumsi buah yang dimatangkan dengan karbit dapat menyebabkan gangguan kesehatan [3], [9]. ...
Penggunaan kalsium karbida (CaC2) atau karbit untuk mematangkan buah dapat berbahaya untuk kesehatan, karena pada kulit dan daging buah terdeteksi unsur logam berbahaya, seperti fosfor dan arsenik. Oleh karena itu, dibutuhkan metode yang dapat digunakan untuk mengidentifikasi buah yang dimatangkan menggunakan karbit. Pada penelitian ini diusulkan sebuah metode spektroskopi untuk mengidentifikasi mangga Arumanis yang dimatangkan menggunakan karbit. Spektrum fluoresensi klorofil (ChlF) yang dipancarkan mangga saat disinari dengan sinar ungu akan diukur dan dianalisis untuk membedakan mangga yang matang alami dan mangga yang dimatangkan dengan menggunakan karbit. Dari hasil pengujian diperoleh bahwa puncak spektrum ChlF dari mangga yang matang alami lebih rendah dari pada puncak spektrum ChlF mangga yang dimatangkan dengan menggunakan karbit. Dengan memanfaatkan batas nilai rasio dua puncak pada spektrum ChlF (I683/I731 = 1,27) yang diujikan pada 120 data spektrum ChlF mangga Arumanis, diperoleh akurasi identifikasi mangga matang alami sebesar 85% dan akurasi identifikasi mangga matang karbit sebesar 80,83%.
... It has been demonstrated that the unbounded use of poisonous DDT powder in dry fish is a potential carcinogen (68). Several observational studies failed to detect higher risk of death (69) Calcium carbide (CaC2) is a chemical substance used in the manufacturing of acetylene and calcium cyanimide (79), the first of which affects the central nervous system by minimizing oxygen circulation to the brain (80). The conduct of food with calcium carbide is predominantly destructive because it encompasses drops of arsenic and phosphorous. ...
Even though food has many health advantages, people nowadays struggle with several health problems as a result of food adulteration. The use of essence, industrialization, and the price of development all contribute to the prosperity of civilization and the adulteration of food. It is a result of corporate unbridled consumerism and selfishness, which does so intentionally to maximize gain. Food adulteration lowers food quality and has a variety of detrimental effects on human health. The table in this study highlights adulteration in about 50 food products and shows that there are nearly 55 adulterants present. Some of these, such as heavy metals, some synthetic colorants, brick dust, calcium carbide, melamine, DDT, formaldehyde, urea, etc., seriously affect human health. These adulterants have the potential to cause a slew of fatal diseases, wreaking havoc on public health. Food adulteration has a variety of acute and chronic effects on the human body, including inflammation, digestive issues, urinary issues, non-carcinogenic hazards, carcinogenic hazards, and so on. Among these are several diseases that can be fatal.
... This chemical upon reaction with water releases the gas, acetylene, a ripening agent similar to ethylene (albeit a weaker analog), the natural plant hormone. This use of calcium carbide is prohibited in Pakistan by food safety authorities because of the presence of impurities such as Arsine (AsH 3 ) and phosphine (PH 3 ) that have been linked to the causation of various health concerns in consumers, such as mental confusion, dizziness, sleepiness, memory loss, mood disturbances, cerebral edema, prolonged hypoxia, seizures, and in severe cases, cancer (Asif, 2012;Chandel & Sharma, 2017). Furthermore, the sale of vegetables is also associated with the physical appearance and therefore the aesthetic appeal of the product. ...
en Food supply chains worldwide are under threat from food adulteration and food fraud during various stages of production and storage, and the incidence of such fraudulent practices has been increasing. Many food regulatory authorities have been established over the years on either side of the globe, contributing to food safety and the creation of awareness regarding food frauds. One of the world's most populous countries, Pakistan is home to a multicultural and multiethnic society, and the people across the country consume a variety of processed and non-processed foods. In this regard, multiple food safety and food quality control standards are in place, aimed at alleviation of food fraud, and production and provision of safe food in Pakistan. Moreover, many regulatory bodies such as the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority, apart from providing food consultation, testing, and certification services, are working to regulate and enforce quality standards, ensuring safe food production and distribution, and correct labeling. At the provincial level, regulatory bodies are actively working to achieve similar objectives, and their portfolio includes inspections of food establishments throughout their respective jurisdictions and the imposition of penalties for violations.
RESUMEN
es Las cadenas de suministro de alimentos en todo el mundo están amenazadas por la adulteración de alimentos y el fraude alimentario durante varias etapas de producción y almacenamiento, y la incidencia de tales prácticas fraudulentas ha ido en aumento. A lo largo de los años, se han establecido muchas autoridades reguladoras de alimentos en ambos lados del mundo, lo que contribuye a la seguridad alimentaria y a la creación de conciencia sobre los fraudes alimentarios. Pakistán, uno de los países más poblados del mundo, alberga una sociedad multicultural y multiétnica, y las personas de todo el país consumen una variedad de alimentos procesados y no procesados. En este sentido, existen múltiples estándares de control de calidad y seguridad alimentaria, destinados a aliviar el fraude alimentario y la producción y suministro de alimentos seguros en Pakistán. Además, muchos organismos reguladores, como la Autoridad de Control de Calidad y Normas de Pakistán, además de proporcionar servicios de consulta, análisis y certificación de alimentos, están trabajando para regular y hacer cumplir las normas de calidad, asegurando la producción y distribución de alimentos seguros y el etiquetado correcto. A nivel provincial, los organismos reguladores están trabajando activamente para lograr objetivos similares, y su cartera incluye inspecciones de establecimientos de alimentos en sus respectivas jurisdicciones y la imposición de sanciones por infracciones.
摘要
zh 全球食品供应链在生产和储存的不同阶段都受到食品掺假和食品欺诈的威胁, 并且此类欺诈行为的发生率一直在上升。多年来, 全球建立了许多食品监管机构, 为食品安全和提高对食品欺诈的认识作贡献。巴基斯坦是世界上人口最多的国家之一, 并且是一个多元文化和多族群社会的家园, 全国人民消费各种加工食品和非加工食品。在这方面, 巴基斯坦制定了多项食品安全和食品质量控制标准, 旨在减少食品欺诈以及生产和提供安全食品。此外, 许多监管机构, 如巴基斯坦标准和质量控制局, 除了提供食品咨询、检测和认证服务外, 还致力于监管和执行质量标准, 确保安全食品生产和分销以及正确的食品标签。省级监管机构正在积极努力实现类似的目标, 其职责包括检查各自管辖范围内的食品企业并对违规行为实施处罚。
... Several ANN's using Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm a network with 7-14-11-13 architecture [4]. Image processing technique identifies the degree of maturity in fruits and thus obtaining a correct classification system [5]. With the assistance of threshold values the maturity level of fruits are often determined and also includes techniques like histogram matching, clustering algorithms based image segmentation and relative value of parameter based segmentation [6]. ...
The cultivation of fruits in fields has become a challenging one in current situation and it needs more manpower to check the standard of fruits. This can be replaced by a robotic version system which will accurately estimate the standard of fruits, a key horticultural crop. This system consists of three parts detection, ripeness and estimation. Efficient detection is achieved using CNN framework-AlexNet. Quantity is then estimated in same framework by learning a parallel-layer. It consists of an entire end to end finish system of automated and efficient fruit quality supported image processing. Effectiveness of the proposed structure is demonstrated by initial leads to superior performance than treating fruit ripeness and quality supported extra classes in traditional CNN framework. It reduces the work of workers and by giving training to computers, it will easily estimate the standard of fruits and distinguish whether it's matured or un-matured, good or bad.
... Calcium carbide treatment of food is extremely hazardous because it contains traces of arsenic and phosphorous, and once dissolved in water, it produces acetylene gas. Arsenic, phosphorous and acetylene gas may affect the different body organs and causes various health problems like headache, dizziness, mood disturbances, sleepiness, mental confusion, memory loss, cerebral edema, seizures and prolonged hypoxia [11]. The indecent use of calcium carbide for fruit ripening is on the increase thus, the need for this study. ...
There is a global upsurge in terminal diseases due to unnoticed intake of toxic chemicals. One of such chemical is Calcium carbide, which has been used to ripen fruits by vendors. The aim of this study is to showcase the toxic effect of Calcium carbide coerced ripened Pawpaw on the kidney. Mature unripe Pawpaw’s were plucked off from the parent plant at Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. The fruits were dividing into two groups; one group was kept and allowed to rip at normal room temperature while the other group was induced with Calcium Carbide to ripe at the Histology Laboratory, Bayelsa Medical University, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. 10gram of Calcium carbide was placed in a bowl containing 5ml of water for dissolution in a closed metal bucket containing 1kg of the fruit [pawpaw] rapped with black nylon and was allowed for two days[48 hours] for ripening. After ripening, sampled fruits were washed and juiced. 600g of both the naturally ripened and calcium carbide ripened pawpaw were peeled separately and blended in an electric blender with 350ml/1L of deionized water. The juice was filtered and poured into clean bottles labeled [CaC2 induced ripened juice and naturally ripened pawpaw juice]; then stored in a refrigerator for subsequent use. 21 adult Wister rats of both sexes weighing between 126.9- 214.3g were used. They were divided into three groups for each sex, based on the body weight and then different concentrations of naturally ripened and calcium carbide induced ripened Pawpaw were administered orally. LD50 was carried out using Lorke, 1983 [13] method for administration of samples using nine [9] Wistar rats. 12 Wistar rats were used for the main experiment. Group 1: Normal control group of 4 rats [2 males and 2 females] receive normal water and feeds only as placebo. Group 2 : Treatment Group [1] of 4 rats [2 males and 2 females] received 5ml/kg naturally ripened pawpaw juice. Group 3: Treatment Group [2] of 4 Wistar rats [2 males and 2 females] received Calcium Carbide ripened pawpaw for 4 weeks. 5ml/kg for both the natural fruit and the CaC2 ripened fruits were administered against each body weight of the adult Wistar rats. The Wistar rats were weighed, one was sacrificed in the groups, each week and blood and organ samples were collected from the three groups for hematological and histopathological analysis. Results showed increase in Creatinine, Urea, and Albumin of the treated groups in contrast to the control (p<0.05). Also there is moderate to severe renal tubular degeneration and tubular necrosis of the Calcium Carbide treated group as against the control. In conclusion Calcium carbide causes complete renal failure and subsequently death may arise.
... Among them, ethephone, Ashuro, dhurshilo, apple, tomato, and paddy straw are easily available and affordable in Dang district of Nepal. A chemical ripening agent like ethophone is likely to cause skin and eye irritation, reminiscence loss, cerebral edema, colonic, prostates, and lung cancer, quick-greenback syndrome, DNA, RNA, and hematological changes [29], so the use of organic ripening agents should be prioritized, for they are cost-effective, environment friendly, and non-toxic in nature. ...
An experiment was conducted at the horticulture laboratory of Prithu Technical College, Deukhuri, Dang, Nepal from 17th to September 30, 2021 to determine a suitable ripening agent for bananas. The experiment was set up in a Completely Randomized Block Design (CRD) consisting of one control and six ripening agents. The ripening agents include five organic ripening agents: ashuro 100 g (T2), dhurshilo 100 g (T3), apple 100 g (T4), tomato 70 g (T5), and paddy straw 100 g(T6), and one chemical ripening agent: ethephone 1000 ppm (T7), each replicated three times. A dozen of the hard green stage of G9 bananas were used for each treatment and kept in a separate Low-Density Polyethylene bag with two perforations. The treated bananas were tested for major physio-chemical changes (physiological weight loss, pulp/peel ratio, total soluble solid, specific gravity, titrable acidity, and firmness), color change of banana peel, and days to ripen. T7 and T4 had the shortest ripening period (3 and 4 days respectively) and shelf-life (3 and 4 days respectively) while T1 and T6 had the longest ripening period (11 and 9 days respectively) and shelf-life (8 days). At days to ripen, T7 and T4 had the least physiological weight loss (2.43 and 2.87% respectively) and highest Total Soluble Solid (13 and 13.23 ˚brix respectively). Thus, T7 proved better for quick ripening but is toxic in nature while T4, in comparison to T7, showed comparatively more shelf-life, similar ripening period, and more importantly, it is easily accessible and has no hazardous effect on health, so T4 can be regarded as the most effective agent for banana ripening. However, if bananas are to be stored for a longer time, T6 can be recommended.
... The study recorded a high percentage of food handlers keeping chemical substances with food that can result in cross-contamination against instructions by FAO/WHO food handlers guide [36], likewise, it was reported that some of the handlers used chemicals to quicken food ripening, prevent pestson stored food products and use to hasten food fermentation and cooking. Studies had revealed that these chemicals can be detrimental to health as it causes various health hazards like headache, dizziness, mood disturbances, mental confusion, seizures and even cancer [38,39,40]. ...
Background: Unsafe food processing and preservation among food handlers has been one of the common causes of food and waterborne diseases. This study aimed to identify factors contributing tounsafe food processing and preservation practices among food handlers in Obio-Akpor LGA of Rivers state. Materials and Methods: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study whichassessed 365 food handlers in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect relevant data. Quantitative datawas presented as frequencies and percentages. All statistical tests were set at a significance level of p< 0.05. Results: Findings show that out of the 365 food handlers who participated in the study, only 43.0% had a set of standard practice guidelines. 47.4% of the food handlers practiced unsafe food processing and preservation methods.Duration of practice for more than 5 years (63.6% vs. 36.4%; p=0.04) and scale of business (large/small) (turnover>NGN50, 000.00) ((58.4%, vs. 10.4%, p=0.05) were significantly associated with unsafe food processing and preservation practicesas handlers who have been in the food business longer and those with larger scale food outlets tended to have better standards. Conclusion: Unsafe food processing practices exist among food handlers with nearly half of the food handlers studied having poor practices. Inadequate working experience and the presence of more small and medium scale businesses was found to be the factors affecting unsafe food processing and preservation practices in our locality.
... Among them, ethephone, Ashuro, dhurshilo, apple, tomato, and paddy straw are easily available and affordable in Dang district of Nepal. A chemical ripening agent like ethophone is likely to cause skin and eye irritation, reminiscence loss, cerebral edema, colonic, prostates, and lung cancer, quick-greenback syndrome, DNA, RNA, and hematological changes [29], so the use of organic ripening agents should be prioritized, for they are cost-effective, environment friendly, and non-toxic in nature. ...
An experiment was conducted at the horticulture laboratory of Prithu Technical College, Deukhuri, Dang, Nepal from 17th to September 30, 2021 to determine a suitable ripening agent for bananas. The experiment was set up in a Completely Randomized Block Design (CRD) consisting of one control and six ripening agents. The ripening agents include five organic ripening agents: ashuro 100 g (T2), dhurshilo 100 g (T3), apple 100 g (T4), tomato 70 g (T5), and paddy straw 100 g(T6), and one chemical ripening agent: ethephone 1000 ppm (T7), each replicated three times. A dozen of the hard green stage of G9 bananas were used for each treatment and kept in a separate Low-Density Polyethylene bag with two perforations. The treated bananas were tested for major physio-chemical changes (physiological weight loss, pulp/peel ratio, total soluble solid, specific gravity, titrable acidity, and firmness), color change of banana peel, and days to ripen. T7 and T4 had the shortest ripening period (3 and 4 days respectively) and shelf-life (3 and 4 days respectively) while T1 and T6 had the longest ripening period (11 and 9 days respectively) and shelf-life (8 days). At days to ripen, T7 and T4 had the least physiological weight loss (2.43 and 2.87% respectively) and highest Total Soluble Solid (13 and 13.23 ˚brix respectively). Thus, T7 proved better for quick ripening but is toxic in nature while T4, in comparison to T7, showed comparatively more shelf-life, similar ripening period, and more importantly, it is easily accessible and has no hazardous effect on health, so T4 can be regarded as the most effective agent for banana ripening. However, if bananas are to be stored for a longer time, T6 can be recommended.
... Analysis of variance of the results revealed that the differences in the changes of weights, length, widths of stomach among the different groups (both control and treated) were non-significant (p<0.05) ( Table 1, 2 and 3). These findings were corresponded with the others (Asif 2012, Bhadoria et al. 2015. ...
Calcium carbide contains traces of hazardous arsenic and phosphorous. Once dissolved in water, the carbide produces acetylene gas that quickens the ripening process, hence is used for ripening fruits. After ingestion acetylene produces free radicals which initiate detrimental effects on various organs of human body. The aim of the study was to investigate the architectural changes of vital organs in calcium carbide induced Swiss Albino mice and measure the adverse effects of calcium carbide in mice tissues. Twenty-Four (24) mice of 7 days old were bought from the Animal Resource Center, ICDDRB. Mice at 60 days old was randomly used for the experiment and they were divided into four groups: each group consisted of six mice namely group-1 (G1), group-II (G2), group-III (G3) and group-IV (G4), respectively. A concentration of 3g, 8g and 12g/kg body weight of calcium carbide was administered orally once daily for 45 days in each group. Group-I (control group) was supplied with normal foods an ad libitum water. On day 45 following administration of calcium carbide in different important organs (stomach, liver, heart, kidney) were collected from the mice of both control and treated groups to investigate the effect of calcium carbide. The weight of the liver was decreased non-significantly in groups 2 and 3, and increased non-significantly in group G3T2 (2.00±0.1544). The weight of the heart was increased non-significantly (p>0.05) in group G3T2 and G4T3 but decreased in other groups. Histopathological studies were done in different organs and revealed different microscopic lesions. Kidney showed thickening of the lining of the collecting tubules with change in cell structure and also some glomerulus structure in raptured condition. For many years ethylene has been used as a fruit ripening agent. Recently calcium carbide is getting popular in this regard as it has a faster ripening property. It was concluded that the appropriate recommended dose of calcium carbide for ripening fruits has no significant health hazards effect.
... An added problem was the obstruction of capture of the ideal fruit image [4] by leaves, branches, and other objects. A study conducted by Mohammad Asif in 2012 [5] discusses the use of substandard substances like calcium carbide in order to fasten the ripening of fruits for domestic markets. ...
Cultivators and sellers of many high-in-demand fruits traditionally preferred natural ripening after picking. Greed of hefty profits has motivated some of them to artificially hasten the ripening process at the cost of people’s health. Artificial ripening processes tend to degrade the entire quality of the fruit. The focus of this work is to describe a nondestructive method to detect artificial fruit ripening. To aid the detection, the proposed solution utilizes image processing and machine learning techniques to find the artificially ripened fruits. An input fruit image is selected as the test image. The next stage involves comparison of the features (histogram values) of the test image with the image of a naturally ripened one. A smartphone runs an android application to identify artificially ripened fruits. This work specifically concentrates on the commonly preferred Indian Mango and Indian Apple. The developed mechanism has an efficiency of 89-94% in correct detection.
... The use of artificial ripening agents assists fruit sellers in meeting consumer demands because they provide a faster ripening time (Dhembare, 2013). Among all ripening agents, calcium carbide is the most commonly used chemical for artificial ripening because it is inexpensive, effective, and easily obtained in local markets (Asif, 2012). ...
The use of indiscriminate ripening agents (e.g., Calcium Carbide) to improve fruit ripening exposes fruits to heavy metal contamination, which can have long-term health consequences for consumers. The purpose of this study was to determine the heavy metals levels of albino rats fed Musa acuminata treated with different ripening agents and also to ascertain through probabilistic models and United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) standards, the extent of health risk and carcinogenicity to the consumers. Twenty-five (25) female albino rats were acclimatized for two weeks after which they were divided into five groups. Group 1 (Normal feed and water), Group 2 (feed + 20g of naturally ripened banana), Group 3 (Feed + 20g of banana ripened with African bush mango), Group 4 (Feed + 20g of banana ripened with 7g calcium carbide), Group 5 (Feed + 20g of banana ripened with 30g calcium carbide). The levels of Arsenic (As), Lead (Pb), and Chromium (Cr) were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The result showed an increase in the levels of Pb and As for groups 2, 3, 4, and 5. Groups 4 and 5 for Cr were significantly higher (p < 0.05). Results from the human health risk assessment model for Estimated Daily Intake showed an increase above the tolerable daily intake for heavy metals such as Pb (for groups 2, 3, 4, and 5) and As (for group 5). There was also a fall in the Tolerable daily intake (TDI) for Cr (all groups were below the TDI) and As (for groups 1, 2, 3, and 4). Toxic Hazard Quotient (THQ) showed increased values above the standard THQ (0<x<1) for an acceptable human such as Pb (for groups 2, 3, 4, and 5) and As (for group 5), whereas values for Cr and As (for group 1, 2, 3 and 4) were below the standard THQ. Carcinogenic Risk (CR) values showed that all values estimated were within the value of USEPA incremental lifetime carcinogenic risk (ILCR > 10-3) while As for group 5 was otherwise. The observed results showed that calcium carbide contains traces of potential toxic elements (heavy metals) and that its use in fruit ripening will pose a potential health risk on the consumers.
... The use of calcium carbide in farming is not recommended worldwide because of the health hazards it is associated with. Calcium carbide treatment of fruits is very hazardous because it contains traces of arsenic and phosphorous, and once dissolved in water, it produces acetylene gas, which affects different body organs and causes various health problems like headache, dizziness, sleepiness, mental and memory loss, cerebral edema, seizures and prolonged hypoxia (Asif 2012). These findings shows that the farmers are using sustainable means to cultivate their pineapples which are sustainable. ...
Sustainable Land Management (SLM) is one of the transformative pillars for agricultural development and environment conservation for food, forage, fuel and fibre security. It aims at the tripartite benefits of high yields, environment protection and income security. The success of SLM is a function of adopting appropriate nutrients and water management practices. Several land management practices have been practiced by smallholder farming systems in great lakes region in Africa. However, there is still limited understanding of the level of acceptability of the various technologies in mitigating soil water shortage and nutrient depletion. This paper evaluates the SLM concept with focus on assessing sustainability in the use of various soil water and nutrient management technologies and practices. Nutrient management measures assessed included a range of common inputs and practices in tropical farming systems. Soil water conservation technologies assessed included the physical, biological and agronomic measures. Analysis conducted suggest that few land users can afford to adopt most of the technologies that define a full package for realization of the pillars of SLM. The integrated use of technologies is an appropriate approach to respond to alarming challenge of land degradation. The inclusion of social-cultural and economic factors in the use of these soil, water and nutrient technologies is fundamental for increasing the adoption rate in communities. Policies should target integrated technologies that are community and/or people centered in SLM if the goal of enhanced agricultural productivity, environment conservation and income is to be realized in the great lakes region of Africa.
... The use of calcium carbide in farming is not recommended worldwide because of the health hazards it is associated with. Calcium carbide treatment of fruits is very hazardous because it contains traces of arsenic and phosphorous, and once dissolved in water, it produces acetylene gas, which affects different body organs and causes various health problems like headache, dizziness, sleepiness, mental and memory loss, cerebral edema, seizures and prolonged hypoxia (Asif 2012). These findings shows that the farmers are using sustainable means to cultivate their pineapples which are sustainable. ...
Fire is a disturbance factor in the gallery forests and palm swamps of the Orinoco
region of Colombia, due to the recurrent burnings of the surrounding savannas.
Since fire is used as a cost-effective land-management tool, savannas are usually burned once a year in the dry season.
This chapter evaluates how fire frequencies impact the regeneration of M. flexuosa,
by comparing seedling and sapling density in palm swamps with different time
since last burn in the department of Vichada, Orinoco region of Colombia. It
attempts to give recommendations for fire management in the savannas of the
region.
... Fruits are refrigerated to prevent damage and to delay ripening. Every fruit produces Ethylene gas at some level naturally and useful to regulate fruit ripening [5]. In artificially ripening, ethylene gas is associated externally with unripe fruits to trigger natural ripening [6] or fasten the ripening process. ...
... Often, people used to intake vitamin riched fruits to avert the risk of many chronic diseases. In contrast, it becomes a business trend to ripen fruits synthetically using few harmful chemicals (calcium carbide (CaC 2 ), ethephon) to make a quick buck [2,3]. Mango has always been dragged our attention for its exquisite flavor and numerous health benefits. ...
Identification of naturally ripened mango using a pocket-friendly, portable aroma detection system (Aroma e-Sense) has been presented in this work. The study found 2, 5-Dimethyl-4-hydroxy-3(2 H)-furanone (DHF), a biomarker of artificially ripened (AR) mango. Hereto, a DHF imprinted polymer coupled to a quartz crystal microbalance (DHFIP-QCM) sensor has been fabricated to detect the important flavonoids. Aroma e-Sense with two modules, viz. DHFIP-QCM sensor, and signal processing module comprises of the crystal oscillator (10 MHz) synchronized with a frequency counter module, display module followed by storage module. The DHFIP-QCM sensor was designed using synthesized methacrylic acid-divinyl benzene polymer as sensing film. The developed Aroma eSense possesses significant repeatability (99.50 %), reproducibility (98.60 %), and stability towards DHF. Further, the developed system has been validated with standardized gas chromatography. Moreover, the Aroma e-Sense was found to be applicable to ensure whether mangoes are carbide treated or not.
... Some specific reasons for milk fraud may including a big gap between demand & supply, perishable condition of milk, low purchasing capability, and lack of compatible test method for detection of milk frauds 5 . Calcium carbide is used to quickly ripen fruits artificially and contain toxic materials such as arsenic and phosphorus which causes blindness and skin irritation 6 . In recent many farmers without knowing any harmful effects of calcium carbide, use it to quickly ripen fruits artificially, calcium carbide contained higher exposure to arsenic that can lead to cancer of the lung, liver, and kidney 7, 8 . ...
... However, as a consumable with global demand, the fruit horticulture industry is faced with pressing concerns in contriving a profitable and sustainable schema in fruit crop production. Namely, reduced post-harvest life and short ripening period are both major economic setbacks faced by the fruit farming industry (Asif, 2012). Solutions to these concerns entails employing a variety of chemicals such as ethylene, ethane, calcium carbide and ethereal (ET), as pre-treatments to improve consumer acceptance and for better marketing. ...
A novel liquid plant growth regulator dubbed ethereal (ET) employed primarily for artificial fruit ripening has been deemed a systemic health concern with documented reports of severe hepatotoxicity. The present study evaluated the viability of the use of Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) as valid test model for human acetylcholinesterase (AChE) through computational phylogenetics followed by investigation of the ET toxicity using male Wistar rats. The adverse effects were studied using a population of 36 male rats (n=9) who were orally treated either with 100, 250, 500 mg/kg of ET or Distilled Water (DW: Control) for 90 days. The reversible effects and delayed toxicity from ET exposure was studied using two separate sets of animals (n=6) who were gavaged with 500 mg/kg of ET and DW for 90 days (main group) and kept for another 28 days without treatment (recovery group). On days 91 and 119 erythrocyte cholinesterase (EChE), which is homologous to AChE and liver toxicity (ALT and AST levels) were determined. Treatment with ET induced a significant inhibition of EChE at both 250, 500 mg/kg groups and also in the recovery group. exploratory behaviour parameters, muscle strength and coordination, However, ET had Similar results were observed with ALT, AST levels both main and recovery groups. These effects were also evident by liver histopathology. It can be concluded that continuous exposure to ethrel could induce liver toxicity and alteration in EChE activity even after withdrawal from exposure.
... On exposure to moisture, CaC2 produces acetylene gas (C2H2), which enhances heat and fruit ripening similar to ethylene (C2H4). CaC2 is produced in an electric arc furnace industrially by heating lime and coke mixture at ~2000°C.Commercially available CaC2 is not pure, as it always contains calcium arsenide (Ca3As2) and calcium phosphide (Ca3P2), which in presence of humidity changes to fat soluble arsine (AsH3) andphosphene (PH3) respectivelyfollowed by rapid diffusioninto the fruit skin and then deposits in the fruit pulp causing extremely hazardous effects on human health (Asif, 2012). Daily intakes of arsenic can cause diarrhea, irritation of digestive system, stomach cancer and liver failure. ...
Calcium carbide (CaC2)is still commonly used as artificial fruit ripening agent for mangoes in many developing countries like Pakistan despite of the major concern of arsenic (As) and other metals contaminations. We used Particle Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) for the detection of arsenic traces in commercially availableCaC2andartificially ripened mangoes (ARM). Presence of harmful arsenic residues in calcium carbide (CaC2) treated fruits provided evidences that arsenic traces were transferred from calcium carbide (CaC2) which is used for ripening. Mature green mangoes were treated with CaC2in three different ways (T1-T3) and were compared to fully ripened mangoes bought from local markets (T4) and non-treated mangoes (T0). Pulverized mango samples were irradiated by 3MeV collimated protons from 5MV tandem accelerator at National Institute of Physics, Pakistan and emitted X-ray spectrum was analyzed using GUPIXWIN to detect significant amount of As traces with differential presence of several other elements. Arsenic presence was further validated and endorsed in mango fruits using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS) and Inductivity Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Absence of As traces in non-treated control mangoes has provided evidence of As contamination in artificially ripened mangoes is associated with CaC2 used for ripening. Arsenic residues in CaC2 treated mangoes can easily added up to already available arsenic exposure towards the limits shown for several cancerous diseases. Present study will not only provide a direct method of arsenic detection in fruits, but also suggest the need of strict implementations and improvements in the existing food safety rules and regulations to completely ban this carcinogenic chemical for its future applications.
The use of calcium carbide (CaC2) for the artificial ripening of fruits is a common practice in some regions, despite being banned in many countries due to health concerns. CaC2 reacts with moisture to produce acetylene gas, which accelerates the ripening process. However, the presence of acetylene gas and its byproducts in CaC2‐ripened fruits can pose risks to human health. Therefore, there is a need for non‐destructive techniques to detect CaC2‐induced ripening and ensure the safety and quality of fruits. This review explores the scope and application of non‐destructive techniques for the detection of CaC2‐induced ripening of fruits. Various spectroscopic methods, including near‐infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and hyperspectral imaging, have been investigated for their potential to identify fruits ripened using CaC2. Additionally, chemical tests and sensor‐based approaches have been explored to detect residues of CaC2 and its byproducts in fruits. The review examines the principles behind these techniques and discusses their advantages, limitations, and practical applications. Non‐destructive techniques are promising for detecting CaC2‐induced ripening of fruits. Spectroscopic methods allow rapid identification of characteristic signatures in ripened fruits, whereas chemical tests and sensor‐based approaches detect CaC2 residues. These tools ensure fruit safety and authenticity, protecting consumer health. Further research is needed to improve the sensitivity and reliability of these methods for wider use in the food industry.
Calcium carbide (CaC2) is generally used as an artificial ripening agent in the agricultural and food sectors but has been prohibited due to its negative impacts on the environment and human. Therefore, in the present study, a novel and cost-effective detection technique was developed for the detection of CaC2 using L-cysteine functionalized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). In this work, a rapid, simple, environment friendly and portable colorimetric nanosensing assay was developed using two different sizes of L-cysteine functionalized gold nanoparticles (AuNP20 and AuNP40). The sensing strategy relied on the fact that the wherein introduction of CaC2 initiates aggregation, resulting in detectable color change (red to purple) that helps in detection of CaC2. The efficiency of the developed sensor was investigated on the artificially ripened mangoes and bananas for selective detection of CaC2. The characterization of synthesized AuNPs was done using Uv–vis spectroscopy, FTIR, particle size, HR-TEM, and XRD analysis. The developed and optimized nanosensing assay was effectively utilized to detect the presences of CaC2 in carbide treated mango and banana fruits. The 20 nm and 40 nm size and stability (−32.6 mV for 20 nm and −27 mV for 40 nm) of the developed AuNPs were confirmed by TEM analysis, particle size and zeta potential analysis. The application of gold nanoparticle-based sensing assay confirms the presence of CaC2 in carbide treated mango and banana fruits by turning their color from red to purple. The developed nanosensing assay showed good sensitivity and selectivity towards CaC2 with LOD of 5 × 10⁻³ mL⁻¹, reinforcing the suggestion that, this sensing assay enables rapid detection of CaC2 in fruit samples without need of a complicated laboratory setup. This simple detection method has the potential to ensure food safety, public health concerns, international standards for fruits exports, and promotes sustainable ripening methods.
Calcium carbide is prohibited as a fruit ripening agent in many countries due to its harmful effects. Current methods for detecting calcium carbide in fruit involve time-consuming and destructive chemical analysis techniques, necessitating the need for non-destructive and rapid detection techniques. This study combined near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy with chemometrics to detect two banana varieties ripened with calcium carbide in different forms when they are peeled or unpeeled. Sixteen linear discriminant analysis (LDA) models were developed with high average classification accuracies for classifying banana based on the mode used to ripen banana, type of carbide treatment and the duration of soaking banana in carbide solution. Banana colour was predicted with partial least squared regression (PLSR) models with R2CV > 0.74, RMSECV and <5.4 and RPD close to 3. NIR coupled with chemometrics has good potential as a technique for detecting carbide ripened banana even if the banana is peeled or not.
Introduction. Calcium carbide is the most commercially used artificial fruit ripener because it is inexpensive to produce though, involving the use of hazardous elements and can easily be purchased in local markets. This study aimed at investigating the architectural changes of organs extracted from albino mice fed with fruits that were ripened with calcium carbide. Material and methods. About 40 mice of both males and females, weighing between 18g-25g were randomly used for this study. They were divided into five (5) groups, made up of six mice namely Groups 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 respectively. A set of unripe mature pawpaw and banana were ripened with calcium carbide (CCRP & CCRB) and were fed orally to groups 3 and 5 respectively for four weeks with water. Another set of the unripe mature pawpaw and banana were ripened naturally (NRP & NRB) without subjecting them to any artificial ripening processes and were fed orally to groups 2 and 4 mice respectively for four weeks with water. Rat feed and water were also given to the control group 1. Results. Increased body weights were observed in the calcium carbide ripened banana (CCRB) treated group when compared to the other groups (control and calcium carbide ripened pawpaw). Histological sections revealed increased numbers of inflammatory cells, presence of collapsed epithelial layer, ruptured muscle, disorganized clara cells, aggregation of fibroblasts in the lungs; mild interstitial edema in the brain between the cardiocytes: mononuclear cell infiltration with cloudy swelling of the renal epithelium; dendritic cells in the brain. Discussion and conclusions. According to this study, eating fruits that are ripened with calcium carbide has adverse related health effects thus negatively altering the histological architecture of the organs such as the lungs, liver, kidney, heart as well as the brain. Fruit vendors must therefore use caution when applying calcium carbide and adhere to international regulations that strictly limit its use.
Abstract
Recently, the availability of point-of-care sensor systems has led to the rapid development of smart and portable devices for the detection of hazardous analytes. The rapid flow of artificially ripened fruits into the market is associated with an elevated risk to human life, agriculture, and the ecosystem due to the use of artificial fruit ripening agents (AFRAs). Accordingly, there is a need for the development of “Point-of-care Sensors” to detect AFRAs due to several advantages, such as simple operation, promising detection mechanism, higher selectivity and sensitivity, compact, and portable. Traditional detection approaches are time-consuming and inappropriate for on-the-spot analyses. Presented comprehensive review aimed to reveal how such technology has systematically evolved over time (through conventional, advanced, and portable smart techniques) detection detect AFRA, till date. Moreover, focuses and highlights a framework of initiatives undertaken for technological advancements in the development of smart the portable detection techniques (kits) for the onsite detection of AFRAs in fruits with in-depth discussion over sensing mechanism and analytical performance of the sensing technology. Notably, colorimetric detection methods have the greatest potential for real-time monitoring of AFRA and its residues because they are easy to assemble, have a high level of selectivity and sensitivity, and can be read by the human eye independently. This study sought to differentiate between traditional credible strategies by presenting new prospects, perceptions, and challenges related to portable devices. This review provides systematic framework of advances in portable field recognition strategies for the on-spot AFRA detection in fruits and critical information for development of new paper-based portable sensors for fruit diagnostic sectors.
Background: Crude acetylene fumes generated from Calcium carbide (CaC2) is one of the most widely used source of acetylene gas for occupational gas welding and as an artificial fruit ripener despite numerous health warnings from the government and health groups in Nigeria. Aim: The study was aimed at evaluating the effects of crude acetylene on heavy metals present in serum, haematological indices and histology of the lung tissues. Materials and Methods: Twenty (20) adult male wistar rats were used. The rats were divided into two groups; Group 1 (control) and Group 2 (Test group) (n=10). The animals from the Test group (n = 10) were subsequently exposed to crude acetylene fumes released from the dissolution of 20g of calcium carbide in water for 30 minutes daily for a period of 4 weeks. At the end of the 4th week, the rats were anaesthetized and blood samples were collected for serum heavy metals and haematological analysis and tissues were harvested for histological studies. Results: a significant increase is seen in serum heavy metals (Cr, Fe and Cd) but no significant difference in Pb in the Test group compared with the control group. Also, there was a decrease in percentage granulocytes and histological results show destruction of respiratory epithelium. Also, there were significant damages to the lung tissues which include mild interstitial haemorrhage, bronchiolar ulceration with luminal debris, interstitial oedema, bronchiolar haemorrhage vascular distortion and congestion. Conclusion: Exposure to crude acetylene fumes increases serum heavy metals and can cause disruption of the respiratory epithelium
Abstarct-A lab experiment "Physio-chemical characteristics of blended beverages (RTS) prepared from guava and pineapple" was conducted during winter season of 2021 at Post Harvest technology Laboratory, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. The experimental material consisted of ten treatments replicated thrice under Completely Randomized Design with combination of different recipes including two standard recipes without blending of guava and pineapple with varying levels of TSS for RTS. The blended RTS prepared from different recipes and blending ratio were also analysed periodically at 30 days interval for their various chemical constituents. The blended RTS organoleptically evaluated by adopting 9-point Hedonic rating scale and observations were recorded for their chemical changes during storage for 90 days. A critical analysis of physical composition of guava and pineapple fruits revealed that average fruit weight was recorded 5 kg and 5kg, pulp weight 4.2 kg and 4 kg, weight of non-edible waste 880g and 970g, respectively. Among the chemical composition, the TSS was recorded (12.31%, 12.80%), acidity (0.43%, 0.42%), ascorbic acid (243 mg/100 ml, 28.8 mg/100 ml), pH (2.41, 2.29). Among various recipe tried in this investigation, the nectar prepared from the treatment T4 (Guava pulp (40%) + Pineapple juice (60%)) recorded highest TSS, Ascorbic acid, organoleptic score with respect to aroma, taste and overall acceptability. During storage of RTS the acidity, TSS, showed an increasing trend with increasing period of storage (0 to 90 days) under ambient condition. While, there was a decreasing trend of ascorbic acid, pH and organoleptic score during storage period up-to 90 days of storage under ambient condition.
Fruit farming has a considerable impact on international trade, environmental security, and food security. Regardless of their One Health impact, the ageless practice of chemical-based fruit ripening is still commonplace in fruit production because it is essential for making fruits available for market and consumption. Certain fruits require a combination of several phytochemicals and artificially added chemicals, many of which have strong antioxidant properties that add to their health effects. In many developed and developing countries, retailers and farmers use ripening chemicals to speed up the ripening of their produce. Fruit ripens naturally with time, improving in taste, softness, and color as well as decreasing in greenness in most cases. After harvest, fruit chemistry, particularly the chemistry of fruit enzymes, changes. Using various ripening agents, almost 80% of fruits are artificially ripened (with the help of chemicals). Underdeveloped nations regularly use chemicals like calcium carbide, ethylene glycol, and ethephon to artificially initiate the ripening process. CaC 2 and fruit moisture interact to create acetylene gas, an ethylene substitute that hastens fruit ripening. In most cases, when the fruit is artificially ripened, the external peel will be golden, but the interior tissue won't be ripe or will still be green and raw. The synthetic ripening agent ethylene releases ethylene in neutral to basic environments, frequently above pH 5. Ethephon produces an acidic solution in water and is used to ripen plants. Consequently, a variety of health hazards have been associated with the incorrect use of these substances. Regular consumption of fruits that have been artificially ripened has been associated with heart conditions, lightheadedness, and skin ulcers. Abstract Fruit farming has a considerable impact on international trade, environ-7
A lab experiment “Physio-chemical characteristics of blended beverages (RTS) prepared from guava and pineapple” was conducted during winter season of 2021 at Post Harvest technology Laboratory, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. The experimental material consisted of ten treatments replicated thrice under Completely Randomized Design with combination of different recipes including two standard recipes without blending of guava and pineapple with varying levels of TSS for RTS. The blended RTS prepared from different recipes and blending ratio were also analysed periodically at 30 days interval for their various chemical constituents. The blended RTS organoleptically evaluated by adopting 9-point Hedonic rating scale and observations were recorded for their chemical changes during storage for 90 days. A critical analysis of physical composition of guava and pineapple fruits revealed that average fruit weight was recorded 5 kg and 5kg, pulp weight 4.2 kg and 4 kg, weight of non-edible waste 880g and 970g, respectively. Among the chemical composition, the TSS was recorded (12.31%, 12.80%), acidity (0.43%, 0.42%), ascorbic acid (243 mg/100 ml, 28.8 mg/100 ml), pH (2.41, 2.29). Among various recipe tried in this investigation, the nectar prepared from the treatment T4 (Guava pulp (40%) + Pineapple juice (60%)) recorded highest TSS, Ascorbic acid, organoleptic score with respect to aroma, taste and overall acceptability. During storage of RTS the acidity, TSS, showed an increasing trend with increasing period of storage (0 to 90 days) under ambient condition. While, there was a decreasing trend of ascorbic acid, pH and organoleptic score during storage period up-to 90 days of storage under ambient condition.
The study evaluated the effect of artificially ripened tropical banana (musa.spp) using calcium carbide (CaC2) as an ripening agent. Sub-lethal levels; 0g/kg, 1g/kg, 5 g/kg and 10 g/kg of CaC2 were administered on unripe banana . Resultant levels of heavy metals, vitamins and mineral components were measured. Proximate analysis showed a decreased trend of: Calorific value(CV) ≥ Carbohydrate(CHO) ≥ Moisture ≥ Dry matter(DM) ≥ Ash(A) ≥Ether (FAT) ≥ Crude fibre(CF) ≥ Crude protein(CP). Mineral contents decreased in the order: Ca ≥ Mg ≥ Na ≥ K ≥ N ≥ P ≥ Mn ≥ Cu ≥ Zn. The vitamins also decreased in the order: Vitamin C ≥ β– Carotene ≥ Niacin ≥ Thiamin≥ Riboflavin. The mean values of Mercury (0.013mg/kg) and Cadmium (0.426mg/kg) were well above the FAO/WHO standards (0.01/0.02mg/kg). Hazard Quotient (HQ) of toxic elements were >1, and Hazard Index (HI) found to be >1, indicating potential human health risk. Recommendations were made.
Standardization, physico-chemical & organoleptic assessmentduring storage of ready to serve blended kinnow- aonla beverage.
Objectives
Calcium carbide (CaC 2 ) and ethylene glycol (EG) are the two commonly used fruit ripening agents. The toxic effects of these chemicals on internal organs were reported in experimental animals. Even though the adverse effects of these compounds have been investigated for many years, there are no sufficient data available with regard to genotoxic effects. The present study evaluates the genotoxic effect of chronic exposures of CaC 2 and EG in Wistar albino rats.
Methods
CaC 2 and EG were administered to the rats orally for 180 days. Chromosomal aberrations and micronuclei formation were analysed in bone marrow and peripheral blood cells. Comet assay was performed to analyse the DNA strand break. The toxic effects of the chemicals were analysed by MTT assay with normal human intestinal epithelial (IEC-6) cells.
Results
Upon chronic exposure, CaC 2 and EG caused chromosomal aberrations, micronuclei formation and DNA strand breaks extensively in bone marrow and peripheral blood cells. In MTT assay, the chemicals were found to be toxic to IEC-6 cells with IC 50 values at 160 and 200 μg/mL for CaC 2 and EG, respectively.
Conclusions
The results show that these chemicals have a potential to cause genomic level of toxicity which may lead to carcinogenic event at a chronic level exposure. The study warns to reinforce the administrative measures against the use of CaC 2 and EG for fruit ripening process.
Objectives:
The threat to human health or the surroundings by the use of artificial fruit ripening agents has become a global concern. Calcium carbide (CaC2) and ethylene glycol (EG) are the two widely using ripening agents. The present study evaluates the toxic effect of chronic exposures of CaC2 and EG in rats.
Methods:
CaC2 and EG were administered to the rats for 180 days orally. The alterations in oxido-reduction status, haematological, biochemical and histopathological parameters were analysed. Arsenic content in CaC2 and animal samples were detected by atomic absorption spectrometer and phosphorus by molybdate-UV method.
Results:
At chronic doses, there were no significant alterations in haematological and biochemical parameters except in creatinine level especially by EG. However, histological details revealed microvesicular fatty change in liver, corpuscles degeneration in kidney and lymphocytes infiltration in various tissues. In intestine, the mucosal lesion scoring was found high (p<0.01). SOD and CAT activities and GSH level was reduced significantly by CaC2 administration (p<0.01). Arsenic and phosphorus detected is above the toxic level: 7.222 and 13.91 mg/dL in CaC2, 1.634 and 6.22 mg/dL in blood and 0.563 and 6.99 mg/dL in liver, respectively.
Conclusions:
The study suggests that the industrial grade CaC2 and EG induce systemic toxicity to rats and the liver is the most susceptible organ. The CaC2 and EG toxicity is mediated through the upset of redox balance and subsequent inflammatory responses. This could be due to the presence of arsenic and phosphorus contents that detected above the normal level in the industrial grade CaC2.
Desirable ripened quality banana fruits are important for the consumer acceptability. Banana cv. Amritasagar was treated with different ripening agents like control (R1), RipestuffTM @ 42 mg/10 mL water (R2), RipestuffTM @ 84 mg/10 mL water (R3), Ethephone @ 200 ppm (R4) and Ethephone @ 400 ppm (R5); and storage durations were 24 h (H1), 48 h (H2), 72 h (H3), and 96 h (H4). The two factors experiment was conducted with complete randomized design with three replications. Fruits were placed in container (RFL). With the progress of storage duration quality parameters like weight loss (%), peel color, pulp to peel ratio, softness, total soluble solids (TSS), and pH were recorded. Fruits treated with R3 and R5 produced uniform yellow color and the highest softness at 96 h. Whereas banana fruits treated with R2 developed peel colour and softness a bit slower compared to other treatments; and untreated fruits (control) were hard, poor in color and quality, and were not suitable for consumption at 96 h. The highest TSS (%) were found at 72 h treated with R5 and at 96 h with R5 including R3, and R4 showed the mostly similar TSS (%). Thus, RipestuffTM @ 84 mg/10 mL water (R3) and ethephon @ 400 ppm (R5) can be used maintaining quality and ripening banana for better price of banana growers and traders through avail it at earlier marketing and reduced postharvest loss.
Exposure to crude acetylene can occur in occupational settings. This study assessed the modulatory activities of selected polyphenols on the hematotoxic, cardiotoxic, and hepatotoxic effects of crude acetylene. Wistar rats were exposed to 58 000 ppm crude acetylene for 10 min at 12 h intervals for 30 days. Some exposed groups were treated with 50 mg/kg rutin, quercetin, gallic acid, or tannic acid. Indices of hematological disorder, oxidative stress, and cardiovascular and hepatocellular injuries were evaluated in animals. The results showed a decrease in the levels of hematological indices in crude acetylene-exposed animals except for white blood cell count which was increased. Decreased activity/level of reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase and ferric reducing antioxidant power with increased lipid peroxidation was observed in animals exposed to crude acetylene. Activities of transaminases, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, and level of bilirubin were increased while the plasma albumin level was decreased. Dyslipidemia, increased activities of lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase-MB, and severe histopathological damage to hepatic and cardiac tissues were also observed in animals exposed to the gas. These deleterious hematological, biochemical, and histopathological changes were ameliorated in crude acetylene–toxified rats treated with the polyphenols. Tannic acid exhibited better activity than gallic acid while quercetin showed a superior activity to rutin. The results indicate that exposure to crude acetylene can lead to blood, heart, and liver-related diseases and dietary polyphenols could provide protective benefits.
The aim of this work was to study the effects of the application of calcium chloride associated with hydrothermal treatment on post-harvest preservation of mango fruit (Mangifera indica L.). The Ca absorption by mango peel and flesh was investigated using the same conditions usually employed for the fruit exportation to the american market. It was verified that the association of heat treatment to Ca application was viable. There was a positive correlation between the amount of Ca applied and the amount of this element presented in the peel, although low penetration toward the flesh was observed. It was demonstrated that Ca reduces anthracnose symptoms. It was also verified, by observing the external appearance of the fruits, that the best results were obtained when 4% of calcium chloride was used, although such concentration did not guarantee the required quality for the fruit exportation. The calcium chloride application was not effective to increase the shelf-life of the fruits.
This paper discusses issues important to consider in developing a framework for performing human health assessments for exposure to metals and metal compounds (U.S. EPA, 2002). The Framework is intended to provide guidance to risk assessors within EPA (the “Agency”) as they develop program-specific risk assessment methods. It will complement other general Agency guidance on the risk assessment process, and contain metal-specific information that should be considered. This involves the unique and specific characteristics of metals and metal compounds that might be applied in metals risk assessments for human health, in contrast to a more general risk assessment approach applied for assessment of organic compounds. This issue paper provides some of the scientific basis that underlies metal-specific characteristics of human health effects assessment. It is not intended to be comprehensive, but does provide appropriate and sufficient reference material for the interested reader to find additional detail on any of the topics.
There are two types of health hazard: (1) hazards with a threshold for the relationship between exposure and the health effect (most target organ effects) and (2) hazards with non-threshold effects considered to pose some level of risk at any level of exposure (cancer and mutagenic effects). The characteristics of specific metals or groups of metals should be considered in hazard identification or identification of critical effects. Results that include the specific characteristics of metals can help EPA establish guidelines for programs assessing the health risks from exposure to metals.
These studies were conducted on two major postharvest issues of local mango industry. Firstly, more than 90% mangoes are packed in wooden crates, which are being eliminated in export markets. Secondly, calcium carbide (CaC 2) is mostly used for ripening of mango fruit; while, its use is being discouraged worldwide, due to associated health hazards. To find out some better alternatives, two experiments were conducted on commercial mango cv. Samar Bahisht Chaunsa. In both experiments, fruits were packed in traditional wood packaging with newspaper liner (WP) and corrugated cardboard packaging (CBP) for comparison. In first experiment, CaC 2 (2g kg -1 of fruit) was used for ripening of mangoes in comparison with ethylene (C 2 H 4) application (100 ppm, 20°C, 48 h), followed by ripening at ambient conditions (33±1°C & 60-65% RH). CBP fruit showed significantly lower fresh fruit weight loss (FWL) and better shelf life compared with WP fruit treated with or without CaC 2 . WP fruit treated with CaC 2 had faster ripening rate and better peel colour development compared with C 2 H 4 treated CBP. In second experiment, WP or CBP fruit were stored (13±1°C & 85-90% RH) for 15 days, followed by natural ripening at two different temperatures (28, 33±1°C). Performance of C 2 H 4 (100 ppm, 48 h) at 25°C and 30°C was also evaluated in CBP fruit. Regardless of ripening temperatures and methods, CBP significantly reduced FWL compared with WP. C 2 H 4 treatment at higher temperature (30°C) significantly improved quality (total soluble solids & sugars) compared with application at low temperature (25°C), however, the fruit colour was not developed to the desired level. In conclusion, CBP can be substituted for WP due to its demonstrated benefits; however, further studies are needed to develop precise ripening protocol using ethylene at different concentrations and temperature regimes, for improving colour and fruit quality under ambient or post-storage conditions.
Environmental factors are recognized as a cause of the increasing frequency of allergic and autoimmune diseases. In addition to external pollutants, metal ions released from dental restorations or from other body implants might trigger inflammation in susceptible subjects. In humans, genes governing metal-induced inflammation and autoimmunity are not yet known. In clinical praxis, metal-sensitive patients will present various symptoms ranging from oral mucosal changes and skin disease to excessive fatigue and autoimmune diseases. Since genetic markers of genetic susceptibility in man are not known, one has to rely on the phenototypic markers. Such biomarkers might be certain detoxification enzymes but also the presence of metal-specific memory cells in the blood. With the increasing use of metal implants in medicine and dentistry, it is important to have a proper tool for the diagnosis of metal allergy in susceptible subjects. After nickel, gold is now the second most common sensitizer. In addition to patch test, an in vitro blood test, an optimized commercially available lymphocyte transformation test (MELISA) is discussed. Both tests were used for the diagnosis of metal allergy in a selected group of 15 patients who suffered from clinical metal sensitivity in addition to other health problems. The concordance of the two tests was good but MELISA detected more metal allergies than patch test. The removal of incompatible dental material (RID) resulted in long-term health improvement in the majority of patients. We postulate that in vivo, metal ions activate T-cells, initiating systemic inflammation, which, through cytokines, affects the brain and hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis. We postulate that in vivo metal ions will activate T-cells starting systemic inflammation which, through cytokines affect the brain and hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The treatment and rehabilitation of metal sensitive patients is based on a firm understanding and recognition of individual susceptibility. RID has to be done done with extreme caution and according to standard working protocol. If performed properly, this treatment can result in decreased systemic inflammation and improved health in sensitized patients.
The fast ripening of fruits means they may contain various harmful properties. A commonly used agent in the ripening process is calcium carbide, a material most commonly used for welding purposes. Calcium carbide treatment of food is extremely hazardous because it contains traces of arsenic and phosphorous. Once dissolved in water, the carbide produces acetylene gas. Acetylene gas may affect the neurological system by inducing prolonged hypoxia. The findings are headache, dizziness, mood disturbances, sleepiness, mental confusion, memory loss, cerebral edema and seizures. We report the case of a previously healthy 5 year-old girl with no chronic disease history who was transferred to our Emergency Department with an 8-h history of coma and delirium. A careful history from her father revealed that the patient ate unripe dates treated with calcium carbide.
Effects of pre-storage application of ethrel on the development of chilling injury (CI), respiration rate, ethylene production and fruit quality of mango (Mangifera indica L., cv. Kensington Pride) were tested. Mature green 'Kensington Pride' mango fruit were dipped in an aqueous solution containing varying concentrations of ethrel (0, 50, 250 and 500 mg L-1) and surfactant 'Tween 80' (0.01%) for 5 min and stored at 5 degrees C for four weeks. After storage, the fruit were allowed to ripen at 22 degrees C. CI index, respiration rate and ethylene production was recorded during the ripening period from 1 to 9 days. Fruit firmness, total soluble solids (TSS), acidity, TSS/acid ratio, reducing, non-reducing and total sugars, taste and fruit rots were recorded from fully ripe fruit. CI was significantly reduced with all treatments of ethrel as compared to control. The treatment of 500 mg L-1 ethrel appeared to be most effective in reducing CI. Fruit respiration rate and ethylene production was also enhanced during ripening period in the fruit treated with ethrel as compared to the untreated fruit. Fruit quality has been improved with the ethrel treatment including increased TSS, TSS/acid ratio, sugars, eating quality and reduced fruit firmness as well as the development of rots. In conclusion, pre-storage ethrel (500 mg L-1) dip treatment for five minutes reduced CI and improved fruit quality and taste.
Acetylene (released from calcium carbide) induced early climacteric along with increased rate of respiration in Alphonso mangoes. However, flavour which is an important quality attribute, was found to be impaired. There was lower synthesis of aromatic components, sugars, and lipids. The metabolism of labelled organic acids and incorporation of labelled linoleic acid into the volatile fraction were suppressed in treated fruits. The degree of unsaturation of free fatty acids increased during ripening and was higher in the control than in treated fruits at their ripe stage. The peel colour with higher carotenoid content was superior in treated compared to untreated fruits. Xanthophylls were higher in concentration in control fruits, whereas, xanthophyll esters and β-carotenoids were predominant in treated fruits. In treated fruits, the loss of membrane integrity, starch, and pectin were accelerated and there was more rapid dissolution of starch granules as seen under the scanning electron microscope.
Mature fruits of mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Kensington Pride were dipped for five minutes in either distilled water or aqueous solutions containing Tween 80 (0.01%) and ethephon at 250, 500, 1000, 1500 or 2000 ppm and kept at 20°C for 24 hr to induce ripening prior to transfer to 13°C. The fruits were packed and sealed in modified atmosphere polyethylene bags and stored at 13.5±0.5°C. Carbon dioxide, oxygen and ethylene concentrations in sealed bags were measured periodically during storage. Fruit ripening and fruit quality were assessed 25 days after storage. During the storage period the concentrations of oxygen increased and of carbon dioxide decreased in the sealed bags with the application of ethephon treatments. Concentrations of ethylene in the sealed bags increased as the concentration of applied ethephon was raised. All the ethephon treatments significantly reduced the ripening time and fruit firmness. The colour index of the fruits was significantly increased with the ethephon treatments. Ethephon treatments significantly reduced the acid content and improved total soluble solids, TSS/acid ratio, reducing, non-reducing and total sugar contents of the fruits as compared to untreated fruits. Eating quality of the treated fruits was also significantly improved with the ethephon treatments. These preliminary results showed that ethephon induced fruit ripening combined with modified atmosphere packaging improved fruit quality and prolonged shelf-life of mangoes.
Two consecutive preharvest sprays of water, calcium nitrate (1% or 2% Ca+2) or calcium chloride (0.6% or 1.2% Ca+2), 20 and 10 days before harvest, were made on cultivar ‘Dashehari’ mango trees. After harvest the fruits were stored under ambient conditions (35 ± 3°C and 65 ± 5% r.h.). All Ca+2 treatments delayed ripening and had a favourable effect on the quality of the fruits during storage. The Ca+2 treated fruits showed a higher Ca level in the peel and flesh, a lower cumulative physiological loss in weight and a reduced respiration rate. Fruits from the most favourable treatment (0.6% Ca+2 as CaCl2) could be stored for 10 days. For the other Ca+2 treatments this was 8 days, while the control fruits were over-ripe at that time. The 1.2% Ca+2 as CaCl2 treatment caused scorching of the marginal and lamellar portion of the leaves; the control fruits could be stored only for 6 days.
To investigate the possible use of oral phosphate as an activator of bone remodeling in coherence treatment of osteoporosis, 82 postmenopausal females, aged 50–75 years, were randomized to treatment with oral phosphate (750, 1500, or 2550 mg/day) or placebo for 7 days and followed for 4 months thereafter. All patients had sustained at least one previous fracture of the distal forearm and had a bone mineral content of the contralateral forearm or bone mineral density of the lumbar spine lower than normal mean for age. Urinary phosphate/creatinine ratio increased in a dose-dependent fashion during treatment (PPP
Ethanol is a naturally occurring substance resulting from the fermentation by yeast of fruit sugars. The association between yeasts and angiosperms dates to the Cretaceous, and dietary exposure of diverse frugivorous taxa to ethanol is similarly ancient. Ethanol plumes can potentially be used to localize ripe fruit, and consumption of low-concentration ethanol within fruit may act as a feeding stimulant. Ripe and over-ripe fruits of the Neotropical palm Astrocaryum standleyanum contained ethanol within the pulp at concentrations averaging 0.9% and 4.5%, respectively. Fruit ripening was associated with significant changes in color, puncture resistance, sugar, and ethanol content. Natural consumption rates of ethanol via frugivory and associated blood levels are not known for any animal taxon. However, behavioral responses to ethanol may have been the target of natural selection for all frugivorous species, including many primates and the hominoid lineages ancestral to modern humans. Pre-existing sensory biases associating this ancient psychoactive compound with nutritional reward might accordingly underlie contemporary patterns of alcohol consumption and abuse.
Metal fume fever is an acutely noxious inhalation syndrome secondary to metal oxide fumes. Despite preventative strategies sporadic cases are likely to continue to present to emergency departments.
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