Researchers at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) have unveiled a groundbreaking, rapid, and non-destructive method to detect calcium carbide, a banned fruit ripening agent, in bananas. This innovative technique not only ensures safer consumption of one of Ghana‘s staple fruits but also heralds a transformative era for organic agricultural practices throughout the country.
Calcium carbide, locally known as “cambad,” has long been used illicitly to accelerate the ripening of fruits. Despite its economic appeal to vendors seeking a quick fix, the chemical is notorious for its severe health hazards, including potential links to cancer and other chronic illnesses. Traditionally, detecting calcium carbide in fruits required destructive methods that compromised both the fruit and the reliability of the results.
Dr. John-Lewis Zinia Zaukuu, lead author from KNUST’s Food Science Department, and his team have successfully circumvented this challenge. Their novel method, detailed in the University’s Nature Journal of Science of Food, can accurately identify calcium carbide in bananas, whether peeled or unpeeled, and even determine the type of treatment and duration of exposure. “This method not only ensures consumer safety but also provides a practical, economical solution for regulatory bodies and the food industry,” Dr. Zaukuu explained.
In 2023, Ghana’s banana production stood at 102.26 thousand metric tons. Based on forecasted data, production is expected to reach 104.62 thousand metric tons in 2024, 107.04 thousand metric tons in 2025, 109.41 thousand metric tons in 2026, 111.74 thousand metric tons in 2027, and 114.02 thousand metric tons in 2028.
In 2022, Ghana exported $48.6M in Bananas, making it the 26th largest exporter of Bananas in the world. In the same year, Bananas were the 22nd most exported product in Ghana.
The new scientific advancement will however help to stimulate further research into sustainable banana cultivation practices, which could possibly increase the volume of Ghana’s banana market.
With consumers now watchful due to the outbreaks of diseases like cholera, there is a demanding shift towards naturally ripened, organic produce, an opportunity for Ghanaian farmers to transition from chemical-dependent methods to organic farming. This transition could enhance the nutritional value of bananas, bolster export competitiveness, and reinforce Ghana’s reputation for high-quality agricultural products.
The success of the KNUST team also underscores a broader imperative, the need to embrace organic farming practices that safeguard human health and the environment. Chemical additives used in fruit ripening have far-reaching consequences when consumed over time, and their elimination from the agricultural process is a critical step towards public health and ecological sustainability.
Encouraging farming communities to adopt natural cultivation methods will not only protect consumers from potential health risks but also preserve the integrity of Ghana’s agricultural heritage. Organic farming, celebrated for its environmental benefits and superior produce quality, aligns with global trends that favour sustainable food systems. It is imperative for policymakers, agricultural extension services, and the research community to work collaboratively in promoting practices that reduce chemical reliance and foster organic crop growth.
