The Government will introduce new legal provisions to enable stronger action against the artificial ripening of fruits using toxic chemicals, Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Wasantha Samarasinghe has announced.
Speaking during a discussion with officials of the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA), the Minister said the authority had received numerous complaints from consumers regarding the sale of fruits that had been artificially ripened using harmful chemical substances.
He said special raids would be launched to identify locations where such illegal practices are taking place, adding that the support of relevant agencies would be sought to carry out the operations.
The Minister further stressed that legal action, including court proceedings, would be initiated against individuals and traders who continue to use toxic chemicals to ripen fruits despite repeated warnings and awareness programmes.
