{
  "id": 9901573,
  "title": "Chemically ripened bananas: What consumers need to know before buying",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/chemically-ripened-bananas-what-consumers-need-to-know-before-buying-9901573",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-26T03:31:27.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Indian Express - Lifestyle",
    "slug": "the-indian-express-lifestyle",
    "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/food-wine/chemically-ripened-bananas-viral-risks-caution-expert-10469207/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Recent internet videos have raised concerns about bananas being chemically ripened. Dietitian Dr. Amreen Sheikh advises not to panic or believe oversimplified messages. Not every oddly colored banana is chemically treated; uneven ripening can occur naturally due to storage or transportation.\n\nChemically ripened bananas are treated with substances that speed up ripening after harvest. Historically, illegal calcium carbide use was common, but today, most large suppliers use safer agents like ethylene gas, which mimics natural ripening hormones.\n\nCalcium carbide is banned in India due to health risks, and its use has decreased due to stricter regulations. Consumers should be cautious but not assume all bright yellow bananas are unsafe. Color patterns alone are not reliable indicators.\n\nDr. Sheikh explains that texture, smell, and taste are more important indicators of chemically ripened fruits. Chemically ripened bananas may appear yellow with green near the stem, while naturally ripened ones may show similar patterns. Chemically ripened fruits may lack aroma and feel unusually hard.\n\nIf fruits are ripened using approved methods like ethylene, they are safe. The real concern comes from illegal chemicals used under unhygienic conditions. Thorough washing and buying from trusted sources reduce risks.\n\nTips:\n- Choose firm bananas with a mild scent and no chemical smells.\n- Avoid fruits that ripen too quickly or unevenly at home.\n- Buy seasonal produce from reliable sources.\n\nAwareness is key, but fear-based messages can be misleading. Most market bananas are safe when sourced responsibly. Focus on hygiene, moderation, and informed purchasing to avoid concerns.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The Indian Express",
        "title": "Chemically ripened bananas: What consumers need to know before buying",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/chemically-ripened-bananas-what-consumers-need-to-know-before-buying",
        "published": "2026-09-26T03:31:27.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}