By Shraddha Parakh

Mango season is here, but it’s unfortunate that some marketers use chemical ripening agents to supply the market. Mangoes are injected with calcium carbide, which, when in contact with moisture, releases acetylene gas. Mangoes can ripen quickly in this way, but eating them can cause digestive problems, skin irritation, and respiratory issues.

However, there are steps you can take to make sure the mangoes you buy are natural and good to eat.

How to spot mangoes contaminated by chemicals?

• Look for Color: Mangoes that have been chemically ripened may have a uniform color throughout the fruit, with no variations or streaks. Natural ripening frequently results in color variations. When mango is chemically ripe, it will have green spots that can be identified. Check the surface of the mango for any powdery or dusty residues, or any unusual discolorations or spots.

• Look for Size: If you want to know if a mango has been chemically ripened, look at its shape. Chemically ripened mangoes are small and dripping with juice. Mangoes with a white or blue mark should also be avoided.
• Dip Test: Observe which mangoes sink and which float after placing them in a bucket of water. Mangoes that are truly ripe sink in water. If any mangoes are visible floating on top, they have been chemically produced.
• Press Test: When purchasing a mango, lightly press it to see if it is ripe. A mango may have been chemically prepared if you press on it and it feels hard in some spots.
• Smell the Mango: The distinctive sweet and fruity aroma of a naturally ripened mango may not be present in an artificially ripened mango. It might not smell at all, or it might smell chemically.

Additional Tips:

Locally produced mangoes are more likely to be fresh and naturally ripened. Try to buy mangoes from a neighborhood farmer’s market or a reputable supermarket that buys its produce locally. Mangoes that are in season are more likely to have a better flavor and be naturally ripened.

If you buy mangoes from a farmer’s market or a local vendor, inquire about the mangoes and how they were grown and ripened. A knowledgeable vendor can give you useful information and aid in your decision-making.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of buying the best mangoes this season and enjoying their delicious flavor and nutritional benefits.