COLOMBO (News 1st) - Sri Lanka's Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has launched a nationwide initiative to collect data on fruit growers, wholesalers, collectors and retailers as part of a broader effort to regulate fruit ripening practices and improve food safety standards.The move comes amid growing concerns over the use of harmful chemicals in the fruit ripening process and aims to promote safer practices throughout the supply chain.Director General of the Consumer Affairs Authority, Samantha Karunaratne, said officials have already begun training programmes in preparation for the initiative.The Authority plans to collect data district-by-district, creating a comprehensive database of individuals and businesses involved in fruit cultivation, collection, distribution and sale.Once the data-gathering process is completed, participants will be educated on approved and scientifically accepted fruit ripening methods to help ensure safer produce reaches consumers.As part of the programme, the Consumer Affairs Authority is also planning to introduce specialized technological testing kits capable of identifying fruits that have been ripened using prohibited chemical substances.The Director General further revealed that from March next year, fruit ripening facilities operating in accordance with approved standards, along with registered fruit vendors, will be formally certified.
