Expert says artificially ripen fruits cause cancer
There have been some concerns raised about the potential health risks associated with artificially ripening fruits, particularly with the use of ethylene gas. Ethylene is a natural plant hormone that promotes fruit ripening, and it is often used in the ripening process to speed up the process.
Some experts have suggested that the use of ethylene gas in fruit ripening may increase the risk of cancer. This is because ethylene has been shown to have mutagenic properties, meaning that it can cause genetic mutations in cells. These mutations can potentially lead to the development of cancer.
However, it's important to note that the scientific evidence on this topic is still limited and inconclusive. While some studies have suggested a potential link between ethylene gas and cancer, other studies have found no such link.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has evaluated the potential health risks associated with ethylene gas and has concluded that it is not a carcinogen. The WHO has also stated that the use of ethylene gas in fruit ripening is generally considered to be safe for consumers.
It's also worth noting that many fruits are naturally ripened, and the use of ethylene gas is not necessary for all fruits. For example, bananas and avocados are typically ripened naturally, while apples and pears may be ripened using ethylene gas.
In summary, while there have been some concerns raised about the potential health risks associated with artificially ripening fruits, the scientific evidence is still limited and inconclusive. The WHO has evaluated the potential health risks and has concluded that ethylene gas is not a carcinogen, and the use of ethylene gas in fruit ripening is generally considered to be safe for consumers.