Udupi: Officials raid banana storage centres over use of harmful chemicals

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, Aug 20, 2026: Food and health department officials raided three to four banana storage centres in Alevoor, Udupi, following complaints that harmful chemicals were being used to artificially ripen bananas.

A joint team of health and food department officials, led by Kundapur Assistant Commissioner Rashmi, conducted inspections at the storage centres. During the inspection, officials reportedly found the use of harmful chemicals to speed up the ripening of bananas. Agents allegedly used to give artificial colour to the fruits were also seized.

Cases have been registered against those concerned for allegedly using harmful chemicals to artificially ripen the bananas. Officials also seized some vehicles suspected to have been used in the illegal activity.

Further details regarding the quantity of chemicals, colouring agents and other materials seized are awaited. Officials warned that strict action would be taken against those illegally using chemicals to ripen fruits, citing food safety concerns.