Punjab Food Authority (PFA) on Monday launched a crackdown against the illegal use of calcium carbide for mango ripening.

According to a spokesperson, PFA teams inspected 216 locations, seizing 117kg of calcium carbide and destroying 95kg of mangoes. Violations of hygiene standards led to fines amounting Rs94,000.

Inspections were carried out at various fruit market shops and transport vehicles.

DG PFA Muhammad Asim Javed visited several orchards where calcium carbide were being used.

He seized chemical was disposed off and heavy fines were imposed on the violators.

Using calcium carbide for mango ripening is illegal and poses serious health risks,said DG PFA.