Chemical Agents Used for Fruit Ripening and its impact on Human health: A Review

Author(s)	Ms. Yasmeen Ali Abdul Sattar Sayyed
Country	India
Abstract	This review critically examines the major chemical agents applied for ripening harvested fruits, focusing on their mechanisms, efficacy, health impacts, and regulatory issues. Fruits like mangoes, bananas, and papayas often undergo artificial ripening to meet market demand and reduce post-harvest losses. Key ripening agents include ethylene, calcium carbide (which releases acetylene), Carbon dioxide, Ethephon (2-chlororthylphosphonic acid), and other compounds which are used on post-harvest fruits. While some agents like ethylene and Ethephon are considered safe within regulated limits, others, especially calcium carbide, pose significant health risks due to toxic contaminants. The paper synthesizes information from scientific literature, regulatory reports, and recent research to highlight both benefits and hazards associated with artificial ripening chemicals. The conclusion emphasizes safer ripening practices and regulatory compliance to protect consumer health
Keywords	Chemical agents, fruit ripening, toxins, human health
Field	Biology > Agriculture / Botany
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 5, September-October 2026
Published On	2026-10-13
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i05.89743

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