BANANAS AND CANCER

DANGEROUS PRACTICE OF RIPENING BANANAS

The highly poisonous chemical calcium carbide is used to ripen bananas in South Africa. Are the South African authorities aware of this diabolical practice which causes multiple diseases and also CANCER??

What are the harms of this chemical?

Calcium Carbide in Fruit Ripening:
- Calcium carbide is a chemical compound that has been traditionally used in some regions to ripen fruits, including bananas. When it comes into contact with moisture, calcium carbide produces acetylene gas, which acts similarly to ethylene, a natural ripening agent. However, unlike ethylene, the use of calcium carbide is hazardous.
Health Risks and Harms:
- Toxicity: Calcium carbide contains impurities such as arsenic and phosphorus, making it highly toxic. Consuming fruits ripened with calcium carbide can lead to serious health issues.
- Health Effects: These include symptoms like headache, dizziness, mood disturbances, mental confusion, memory loss, and prolonged exposure can lead to serious health problems, including CANCER.
- Respiratory Problems: The gas produced by calcium carbide can cause respiratory problems when inhaled.
- Potential for Burns: Calcium carbide can react with moisture to form caustic substances that can cause burns and ulcers in the mouth, throat, and stomach.
Bans and Regulations:
- Global Perspective: The use of calcium carbide for ripening fruits has been banned or restricted in many countries due to its health risks. Countries like India, Bangladesh, and several others have imposed strict regulations to prevent its use.
South Africa: While it’s concerning if calcium carbide is being used in South Africa, the practice is illegal in many regions globally, and South African authorities would likely be aware of the dangers.
Awareness and Enforcement in South Africa:
- Awareness: South African authorities are likely aware of the dangers posed by calcium carbide, and it would be illegal to use it for ripening fruits. However, whether there are instances of its use in South Africa would depend on the enforcement of food safety regulations.
- Enforcement: If there are reports or suspicions of its use, it would be crucial for local health authorities to investigate and take action to prevent public exposure to this harmful substance.

In summary, calcium carbide is a dangerous substance, and its use in ripening fruits poses significant health risks. It has been banned in many countries, and while authorities in South Africa should be aware of its dangers, the enforcement of regulations is key to ensuring that such practices are not used. (End of Report)

In view of the real and established health hazards of Bananas ripened with this poisonous substance, it is not permissible to consume bananas. Dharar (Harm) is a principle of Prohibition according to the Shariah.

Besides the Shariah’s stance, people who are not mentally derangement, will be compelled to abstain from consuming cancer producing substances when they become aware.

5 Safar 1446 – 10 August 2024