The high demand for fruits served by an unreliable supply has forced some businesspersons to use unethical means to meet required quantities. They use chemicals to ripen fruits. This has health defects and reduces nutritional value in the affected fruits.

Share news tips with us here at Hivisasa

These are the signs that the mango you are about eat was ripened artificially:

1. Greyish-white coat. If you notice that your fruit has a colour that is in between grey and white there are high chances that it was forced to ripe. Alternatively, be on the lookout for some black powder on it. Avoid mangoes with these characteristics.

2. Black patches. It is normal for a fruit to have one or two black patches but if you bought it a few days ago and they appear, it is a potential effect of chemical ripening. Such fruits have a short shelf-life thus your fridge will not help you in preserving them.

3. Garlic-like odour. This is a good sign that can save you from being a victim of the dirty business carried out by rogue businesspersons. Guard your health by avoiding such mangoes.

4. Appear ripe but are raw. If you come across a mango that looks ripe from the outside but is still raw and hard, they are not good for your health. Do not purchase such fruits.

5. Tasteless. MAngoes which have been ripened artificially are usually soft to touch and leave a bad aftertaste when consumed. Avoid chemically ripened fruits, save your money and life.