Udupi: Officials from the Food and Health departments conducted raids on three to four banana storage centres in Alevoor following complaints that chemicals were being used to artificially ripen bananas.
The raids were conducted by Kundapur Assistant Commissioner Rashmi along with officials from the Health Department and Food Department.
Harmful chemicals detected
During the inspections, officials reportedly detected the use of harmful chemicals to accelerate the ripening of bananas.
Artificial colouring agents allegedly used during the process were also seized by the officials.
The action followed complaints regarding the practice, which raised concerns over the safety of bananas being prepared for sale and consumption.
Cases registered against operators
Officials have registered cases against those allegedly found using harmful chemicals to artificially ripen the fruits.
Vehicles reportedly used for the activity were also seized during the raids.
The authorities are expected to examine the seized materials as part of the investigation and establish the extent of the alleged practice at the storage centres.
Further details awaited
Officials are yet to disclose the quantity of chemicals and other materials seized during the operation.
The raids highlight concerns over the use of unauthorised substances in fruit ripening and the need for food safety checks at storage and distribution centres.
Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.