Summer is here, and so is the much-awaited season of the "king of fruits" — mangoes! But with the arrival of these juicy treats also comes a familiar concern: Are they safe to eat, or have they been artificially ripened using harmful chemicals like carbide? Although using carbide is banned in India, it's unfortunately still widespread.
Don't worry — you don't have to give up your favorite fruit. Lifestyle coach Luke Coutinho recently posted a helpful video on Instagram, offering an easy method to check if your mangoes have been exposed to dangerous chemicals.
Luke explains that the first step is to examine the skin of the mango carefully. Naturally ripened mangoes usually have a slight unevenness in color. However, if you notice uniform color with tiny black spots, it’s a signal to stay cautious.
Next, press the mango gently — a naturally ripened one will feel firm yet tender, while a chemically treated mango often feels unnaturally soft or overly mushy.
The highlight of the test is the simple water trick. Drop the mango into a container of water:
If it sinks, it’s likely safe and naturally ripened, packed with pulp.
If it floats, it may indicate carbide treatment, as chemically ripened mangoes are lighter with more air and less pulp.
"This is a quick and easy check anyone can perform at home," Luke says in the video. "Whether it’s for your kids, parents, or senior family members, this little test is worth doing."
He wraps up the message with a wise reminder:
"Don’t fear the humble mango — fear a poor lifestyle instead."
In the caption, Luke also cautions viewers: "While this test can give you a fairly good idea, it isn’t foolproof. For 100% certainty, lab testing would be needed. Still, it’s a good habit to develop."
Disclaimer: This article offers general information and tips. It is not intended as medical advice. For personalized recommendations, always consult a qualified healthcare professional. CNewsLive English is not responsible for the information shared.