Pineapple cultivation in Madhupur, Bangladesh, is under examination due to chemical usage aimed at enhancing fruit size and expediting ripening. Local growers are reportedly applying chemicals to meet increased demand during Ramadan, impacting the fruit's natural flavor and raising health concerns.
The Madhupur region, a central hub for pineapple farming, primarily grows the Giant Q and Honey Queen varieties. According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), pineapples are cultivated on 6,630 hectares, with Giant Q on 4,220 hectares and Honey Queen on 2,392 hectares. The Honey Queen variety, locally known as Joldungi, typically reaches markets in May and June, while Giant Q is harvested in July-August.
Rakib Al Rana, an upazila agriculture officer, noted that Joldungi pineapples naturally ripen during the monsoon. However, some farmers, driven by market demand, resort to chemical treatments. Although the government permits hormone use to slightly expedite the yield process, excessive application by some farmers has been reported, contrary to official guidelines.
Local chemical shop owners have allegedly encouraged this practice, influencing farmers to lack direct access to DAE guidance. Chan Miah, a local grower, mentioned, "In one field, all the pineapples do not ripen at the same time. So, sometimes we use chemicals to ensure that an entire field's harvest can be taken to the market at the same time."
Health professionals, including Dr. Jahangir Alam from Tangail Medical College Hospital, warn that excessive chemical use is harmful, particularly for pregnant women. Prof Abdullah Iqbal from Bangladesh Agriculture University emphasized the need for awareness to curb this practice.
Source: Asia News Network