Report

The Food Safety Department has urged consumers to check watermelons carefully before purchasing to ensure they are free from harmful chemicals. Officials inspected various selling points in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, on Thursday and Friday as part of their ongoing drive against artificially colored and rotten watermelons.

Officials Seize Over 1,100 kg of Poor-Quality Watermelons

On Thursday, officials confiscated and destroyed 1,100 kg of substandard watermelons from vendors along Mangalam and Palladam Road. They continued inspections on Friday at Thennampalayam Market. A team led by Vijayalalithambigai, Designated Officer for Food Safety and Drug Administration, seized 60 kg of watermelons that failed to meet quality standards. While they did not detect artificial coloring, they removed and destroyed watermelons with visible external damage.

Consumers Advised to Check Watermelon Quality

Officials recommended that consumers test for artificial coloring by placing chopped pieces in a glass of water. If the water changes color, the fruit may contain harmful dyes. Rubbing the surface of a cut watermelon with white paper or tissue can also help detect chemicals—if no color transfers, the fruit is likely safe. Since vendors often store watermelons on warehouse floors, rats can nibble on them, increasing the risk of contamination. Officials urged consumers to inspect watermelons for bite marks or external damage before buying to avoid health risks.

Source: The Hindu