Click to Catch Faulty Mangoes! The arrival of summer brings with it a surge in fruit markets, where mangoes ripen in unnatural hues, often appearing overly vibrant and artificially plump. Behind this striking color lies a dangerous chemical process involving calcium carbide, a toxic substance used by vendors to artificially ripen fruits. This practice, though common, poses severe health risks to consumers, as the chemical residue left behind can lead to kidney failure, liver damage, and even cancer. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to these effects. Calcium carbide reacts with water to release acetylene gas, which accelerates ripening but leaves behind harmful residues like arsenic and phosphorus. Despite these dangers, vendors continue to use this method due to its low cost and effectiveness. However, a groundbreaking solution is emerging in the form of an artificial intelligence (AI) app developed by researchers at Punjab University. This innovative tool allows consumers to scan a fruit with their smartphone camera, analyzing its color, surface texture, and light reflection to determine whether it was naturally ripened or chemically treated. The AI app works by detecting subtle differences between naturally ripened fruits and those treated with calcium carbide. Chemically ripened fruits often appear overly shiny and firm, lacking the natural softness and aroma of ripe produce. By leveraging advanced data analysis, the app can identify these minute variations, offering users a reliable way to avoid harmful products. This technology promises to empower consumers, enabling them to safeguard their health without relying on expensive or regulated ripening methods.#pune_university #calcium_carbide #food_safety_and_standards_authority_of_india #ai_app #mangoes
