Beeswax, carnauba wax and shellac wax are commonly used to make apples appear shiny and red. (News18 Hindi)
During the nine days of Navratri, the demand for apples surges, leading to the introduction of artificially ripened and polished apples that may contain harmful chemicals
Fruits hold special significance during the holy occasion of Navratri, with devotees consuming various fruits while fasting. Apples are in particularly high demand these days as the fruit is not only beneficial for health but also plays a role in religious rituals.
Apples are rich in vitamins, fiber and antioxidants, which help in protecting against many diseases. However, due to increase in demand, some traders use harmful chemicals to maximise profits, posing serious health risks.
Religious significance and Use of Apples
Devotees fasting during Navratri consume fruits to maintain energy levels, with apples being the most prominent choice. These provide energy and nutrition throughout the day. During the nine days of Navratri, the demand for apples surges, leading to the introduction of artificially ripened and polished apples that may contain harmful chemicals.
Effects of Chemically Ripened Apples on Health
Sanjay Kumar, a food laboratory expert based in Patna, reveals that many traders use wax and coloured chemicals to enhance the appearance of apples. Beeswax, Carnauba wax and shellac wax are commonly used to make apples appear shiny and red. Apart from this, dangerous chemicals like calcium carbide are employed to hasten the ripening process, which poses severe health risks. Consuming chemically ripened apples can increase the risk of cancer, liver failure and other serious illnesses.
Doctors’ Warning
Dr. Seema Singh, Deputy Superintendent of Gardnibagh Hospital in Patna, warns that eating apples treated with chemicals and wax can have severe health repercussions. Such apples can cause stomach pain, vomiting and liver or kidney diseases. Prolonged consumption of such apples may lead to serious conditions, including cancer and organ damage.
How to Identify Natural Apples?
Food experts advise checking the quality of apples before purchasing them. Consumers should be careful of excessively shiny and red apples, as these may have been treated with chemicals. Black spots on the apple’s peel can also indicate chemical ripening. It is important to wash and rub apples thoroughly before eating to remove any wax or chemicals applied to them.
