Consumers express concern over adulteration in watermelon

Consumers express concern over adulterated watermelons, urging FDA to monitor vendors for quality and safety.

Reports of adulteration in watermelons from a number of places have caused concern among consumers, who have urged the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department to monitor stalls and ensure that only quality watermelons are being sold.

The use of erythrosine, a synthetic dye, to enhance sweetness and make watermelon pulp appear redder has raised health concerns among consumers. Watermelon is a popular fruit in the summer, and some vendors use this dye to make the fruit look fresher and more appealing. Consuming adulterated food can cause allergies, digestive problems, and potential damage to vital organs with prolonged use.

Temporary shops selling the fruit have sprung up in large numbers along roadsides and under the shade of trees across the district. Due to its affordability, high water content, and numerous health benefits, watermelon is a preferred choice during hot weather.

With the average temperature across the district exceeding 35 degrees Celsius since February 2025, demand for the fruit is very high. D. Vadivel of Sampath Nagar urges authorities to inspect and monitor all fruit shops to ensure that only quality, unadulterated fruits are sold. Though vendors claim that supply is sufficient and there is no need to inject artificial colours, consumers are demanding strict action against those engaging in such malpractices.

“The fraudulent practice is carried out by a few vendors to make the fruit more appealing to us. But it should be stopped completely,” said P. Lakshmi of Solar.

Officials said that while naturally ripened watermelon flesh is deep red or pink with natural black seeds, adulterated watermelon often has an excessively bright red hue, which appears unnatural.