Dhaka, May 16 -- Summer in Bangladesh brings with it the irresistible appeal of mangoes. From the sweet and fragrant Langra of Rajshahi to the luscious Himsagar of Chapainawabganj, mangoes are more than just a fruit - they're a seasonal celebration. But while you may be enjoying their juicy sweetness, there's an unsettling question to consider: are the mangoes you're eating safe, or have they been artificially ripened using harmful chemicals?

In Bangladesh, as in many parts of South Asia, artificial ripening has become a growing concern. In an effort to speed up the ripening process and meet market demands, some traders turn to chemicals like calcium carbide. Although its use on fruits is banned by the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (B...