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The low price of the carbide results in their indiscriminate usage, Calcium Carbide treatment is extremely hazardous because it contains traces of arsenic and phosphorous and the acetylene gas forms acetaldehyde which can cause cancer. Early symptoms of arsenic or phosphorous poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea with or without blood, burning sensation of the chest and abdomen, thirst, weakness and difficulty in swallowing and speech and garlic like odor of breath. Other effects include numbness in the legs and hands, general weakness, cold and damp skin and low blood pressure prolonged exposure may also result in cancer.
Another highly toxic chemical Ethrel or Ethephon is also being widely used for artificially ripening and maturing fruits, posing serious health hazards. If swallowed, it can cause 'chemical poisoning' with no antidote. Its spray mist and direct contact with the liquid can be very dangerous. Traders use the chemical to quickly ripen fruits like mango, banana, papaya etc. The label on the plastic bottle containing the chemical warns that it may cause blood circulatory shock and advises avoiding.
These chemicals affect human beings in different ways by interfering with the normal biochemical or physiological life processes and activities. For instance, they interfere with the enzyme system. They cause several minor diseases that is acidity, vomiting, nausea/ allergic and major diseases including genetic damages, miscarriages, memory loss, dermatitis, birth deformities & various forms of cancer.
Under section 44AA of Prevention of Food Adulteration Act usage of Calcium carbide for ripening of fruits is banned since 31.01.1979. How ever this chemical is used extensively. Various quarters feel that the government should take immediate steps to stop use of the toxic chemical
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