Naturally ripened or powder-treated?

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

As summer peaks, the king of fruits, mango, has arrived in markets. However, not all mangoes have ripened naturally. With traders using chemical ripening agents, consumers must decide will they serve their son-in-law mango pulp from artificially ripened mangoes or choose the natural taste?

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Hapus mango prices touch Rs 2,000 per Dozen

Mango markets are bustling with Hapus mangoes from Karnataka and Konkan. Interestingly, Karnataka’s Hapus is being sold as Devgad Hapus from Konkan to fetch a higher price. Currently, Konkan’s Hapus costs Rs 1,400 to Rs 2,000 per dozen, while Karnataka’s version sells for Rs 750 to Rs 1,000 per dozen.

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Mango varieties and market ratesVarietyPrice (Per Kg/Dozen)

Lalbagh Rs 150 – Rs 200 per kg

Kesar (Nizamabad) Rs 300 - Rs 350 per kg

Benishan Rs 150 - Rs 200 per kg

Hapus (Konkan) Rs 1,400 - Rs 2,000 per dozen

Hapus (Karnataka) Rs 750 - Rs 1,000 per dozen

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How traders ripen mangoes artificially

Earlier, traders used calcium carbonate, but it was banned due to health risks. Currently, Ethrel (Ethephon) powder is permitted under strict guidelines. It must be used in pouches, without direct contact with the fruit. However, some traders violate the rules by spraying Ethephon directly on mangoes, posing serious health risks.

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How to spot chemically ripened mangoes

Stem Check: If the stem remains green while the mango is yellow, it's artificially ripened.

Skin Texture: Chemically ripened mangoes look glossy but are not soft.

Black Spots: These mangoes spoil faster and develop black patches.

Even Ripening: Naturally ripened mangoes have uniform color, unlike artificially ripened ones.

Aroma & Taste: Naturally ripened mangoes have a sweet fragrance and rich taste, while chemically ripened ones lack both.

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Choose wisely before you buy!

Before indulging in your favorite summer fruit, be cautious. Natural ripening enhances flavor and aroma, while chemical ripening raises health concerns. Will you settle for chemically treated mangoes, or will you choose the real king of fruits?