Egypt’s Agriculture Ministry Confirms Regulation of Ripening Agents

وزارة الزراعة.

The Media Center of the Egyptian Cabinet released a statement on its social media platforms addressing a circulating video that claimed a lack of oversight on the use of chemicals that accelerate fruit ripening.

In communication with the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, the center clarified that the information presented in the video is inaccurate and does not reflect the regulations governing the use of these substances.

The ministry confirmed that the discussed compounds are plant growth regulators available in markets and authorized for use under specific guidelines and concentrations. It is advised not to use them outside approved instructions or to exceed critical limits that could adversely affect crop yield.

Furthermore, the ministry emphasized its ongoing monitoring campaigns at agricultural supply stores, ensuring products comply with approved standards. There will also be increased efforts to educate farmers on safe usage practices to prevent non-compliant applications or dosages, alongside legal actions against any violations detected.

These compounds are used for specific agricultural purposes, including regulating and synchronizing fruit ripening times, which facilitates harvesting and marketing processes. They are also employed to enhance coloration in certain mango varieties such as Austin, Heidi, Yasmina, Sukari, Alfonso, and Timour. In certain cases, they can stimulate flowering or regulate vegetative growth based on agricultural conditions and prescribed dosages.

However, improper use or exceeding recommended doses can yield negative results on crops, such as reducing fruit quality and shelf life. High doses or inappropriate timing may lead to increased fruit drop or smaller size and deterioration in quality if applied before full growth completion. Additionally, excessive application may cause fruits to become overly soft, making them more susceptible to damage and shortening storage and transport durations.

Research has also indicated that higher concentrations can cause leaf or flower burning, particularly when applied during high-temperature periods. Repeated applications at inappropriate concentrations may reduce overall yield during the season.

The ministry recommends using these compounds solely for their intended purpose and adhering strictly to manufacturer-recommended dosages while following technical application instructions. Spraying is best conducted early in the morning or just before sunset, avoiding application during heat waves or on trees suffering from drought stress.

Dosages and timings vary based on fruit type, age, and intended use; spraying is ideally done when fruits reach physiological maturity about 10 to 20 days before anticipated harvest. The ministry does not recommend spraying immature fruits.

The ministry reiterated the importance of adhering to approved regulations and only using these materials as specified at appropriate times to ensure crop quality and safety.

The Media Center urges social media users not to fall for misleading information and encourages consulting official sources for accurate details.