Artificial Ripening Practices and Demographic Characteristics of Fruit Sellers in Birnin Kebbi, Northwest Nigeria

Received 18 Apr, 2025

Accepted 29 Jun, 2025

Published 30 Jun, 2025

Background and Objective: Artificial ripening agents are increasingly common in commercial fruit distribution worldwide. However, concerns persist regarding their safety, particularly in developing countries where low-cost, substandard agents are often employed. This study surveyed the demographic characteristics of fruit sellers and investigated food ripening practices in Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional survey design. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 100 consenting fruit vendors to collect data on their demographic characteristics and artificial fruit ripening practices. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, with results presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: The findings revealed that males constituted the majority (60%) of fruit sellers. The largest age group was 26-35 years (35%), followed by 36-45 years (25%). In terms of educational attainment, 40% of participants reported completing primary education, while 30% had secondary education. Ethnically, the Hausa group formed the largest proportion (40%), followed by Fulani (25%) and Yoruba (15%). A significant majority (75%) were aware of the use of artificial ripening agents, whereas 25% were unfamiliar with such practices. Bananas were identified as the most frequently ripened fruit (60%), followed by mangoes (50%), tomatoes (35%), and plantains (30%). Calcium carbide was reported as the most commonly used ripening agent (65%), followed by ethylene gas (45%) and ethephon (20%). Alarmingly, 96% of respondents lacked adequate knowledge regarding the proper application of these agents. Conclusion: These findings underscore the potential health risks posed to consumers due to the improper use of ripening agents. Educational initiatives are urgently needed to raise awareness among fruit sellers and the general public about the hazards associated with unsafe ripening practices and to promote the use of safer, regulated alternatives.

INTRODUCTION

Fruits are a vital component of a balanced diet, providing numerous essential nutrients. They are rich in phytochemicals, dietary fiber, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, carotenoids, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds¹. Additionally, dry fruits are a concentrated source of energy, antioxidants, vitamins, and essential minerals, contributing significantly to human metabolic activities and overall well-being².

Recognizing the importance of fruit consumption, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a daily intake of at least 400 g of fruits and vegetables (approximately five servings) to help prevent noncommunicable diseases³. Alarmingly, low fruit intake ranks as the third leading dietary risk factor globally, accounting for over 2 million deaths and 65 million disability-adjusted life years annually⁴. Diets low in fruits have been linked to higher mortality rates compared to those high in trans fats, sugar-sweetened beverages, and processed meats. They are recognized as significant contributors to cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and cancers⁵.

Fruits are predominantly consumed in their raw, ripe form. Ripening is a critical phase in the fruit lifecycle, transforming fruits from immature to mature stages through complex physiological and biochemical changes. This process enhances palatability and consumer appeal, involving the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars, softening of the flesh, color changes, and the development of distinctive flavors and aromas⁶. These transformations are regulated by various endogenous and environmental factors, including hormones, temperature, and humidity⁷. Ethylene, a plant hormone, plays a pivotal role in regulating ripening in climacteric fruits such as tomatoes, bananas, and apples, which experience a surge in ethylene production and respiration rates during ripening. This triggers the biochemical pathways responsible for these changes⁸. Conversely, non-climacteric fruits like strawberries, grapes, and citrus do not exhibit a similar ethylene surge, though they may respond to exogenous ethylene application⁹.

The growing demand for fruits, driven by their health benefits, has led to the widespread use of artificial ripening agents such as calcium carbide, ethephon, and ethylene gas to meet market needs¹⁰. Calcium carbide, upon exposure to moisture, produces acetylene gas, mimicking ethylene in its ripening effects¹¹. These synthetic agents have revolutionized fruit distribution by enabling controlled ripening, particularly in regions with suboptimal natural conditions or for synchronizing large-scale ripening¹². However, in developing countries like Nigeria, where approximately 70-80% of fruits are artificially ripened, concerns about food safety, nutritional quality, and environmental impacts have arisen¹³. The use of calcium carbide, for instance, poses health risks due to impurities like arsenic and phosphorus, which can be toxic when ingested¹⁴. Ethephon exposure has been associated with symptoms such as excessive salivation, lacrimation, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and reduced appetite, alongside inhibition of plasma cholinesterase activity¹⁵. Artificially ripened fruits have also been linked to allergic reactions, including itching, rashes, angioedema, and anaphylaxis, some requiring hospitalization¹⁶. Additionally, synthetic ripening agents may compromise nutritional quality, reducing levels of key vitamins and antioxidants¹⁷. From an environmental perspective, improper disposal and overuse of these chemicals can lead to soil and water contamination, adversely affecting soil health and the broader ecosystem¹⁸.

To address these issues, stringent regulatory frameworks and oversight mechanisms have been established in many regions of the world to prevent the misuse of synthetic ripening agents. However, such frameworks are notably absent in Birnin Kebbi, North-western Nigeria. This study aims to bridge this gap by conducting a comprehensive survey of the ripening agents used in the region, alongside an analysis of the demographic characteristics of fruit sellers. By identifying patterns and practices, this research seeks to inform policy recommendations and promote safer fruit ripening practices, ensuring consumer safety and environmental sustainability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Study area: The study was conducted in Birnin Kebbi, Northwestern Nigeria, between October and November, 2024.

Study design: This research employed a descriptive, cross-sectional survey design.

Study population and data collection: The study enrolled 100 fruit sellers operating in prominent fruit markets across the city, including the Central Market, Stadium, and Gbadangbaji. Participants were selected based on their availability and willingness to participate. Before data collection, informed consent was obtained from each respondent. They were briefed on the study's objectives and assured of confidentiality to encourage accurate and honest responses. Participants were provided with a structured questionnaire designed to gather demographic information such as gender, age, and educational attainment. The questionnaire also included items related to artificial fruit ripening practices, such as participants' knowledge, use of ripening agents, and perceptions of the effects of such practices on health and fruit quality. Questions were a combination of multiple-choice and open-ended formats, facilitating the collection of both quantitative data for statistical analysis and qualitative insights for an in-depth understanding. The survey was conducted over 15 days, ensuring adequate time to capture representative responses across the study locations.

Eligibility criteria: Participants were included if they met the following criteria:

	•	They had been selling fruits for at least two years
	•	They provided informed consent to participate in the study

Ethical approval and consent to participate: Ethical approval for this research was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Federal University, Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria. The study was conducted in compliance with the ethical guidelines outlined for research involving human participants. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants before the commencement of the study. Confidentiality and anonymity were rigorously maintained, ensuring that all collected data were securely handled and used solely for research purposes. This study adhered to the ethical principles of the Declaration of Helsinki, originally adopted in 1964 and most recently amended in October, 2024, which outlines standards for conducting medical research involving human subjects.

Data analysis: Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize the data, with results expressed as frequencies and percentages. Data visualization, including charts, was generated using Minitab software (version 21).

RESULTS

Demographic information: Table 1 summarizes the demographic characteristics of the respondents. Male participants constituted the majority, accounting for 60% of the sample. The largest age group was 26-35 years, representing 35% of the respondents, followed by the 36-45 years age group at 25%. In terms of educational attainment, the majority of participants (40%) reported having completed primary education, while 30% had secondary education. Regarding ethnicity, the Hausa ethnic group formed the largest proportion at 40%, followed by Fulani at 25% and Yoruba at 15%.

Fruit ripening experience of the respondents: Table 2 presents the distribution of respondents based on their experience in fruit-related activities. The largest proportion of participants (40%) reported having 5-10 years of experience, followed by 35% with less than 5 years of experience. A smaller group, comprising 25% of respondents, indicated having more than 10 years of experience in fruit-related activities.

Fruit-ripening awareness by the respondents: Figure 1 illustrates the respondents awareness of artificial ripening agents used on fruits. A substantial majority (75%) reported being aware of the use of these agents, while the remaining 25% indicated a lack of familiarity.

Common fruits artificially ripened: Figure 2 highlights the types of fruits commonly ripened in Birnin Kebbi. Bananas are the most frequently ripened fruit, accounting for 60% of the total, followed by mangoes at 50%. Tomatoes and plantains are also commonly ripened, with 35 and 30%, respectively.

Fig. 1: Awareness about fruit-ripening agents

Table 1:

Demographic characteristics of the respondents

Demographic characteristic	Categories	Frequency	Percentage
Gender	Male	60	60
	Female	40	40
	Total	100	100
Age	18-25	20	20
	26-35	35	35
36-45	25	25
	46-55	20	20
	Total	100	100
Level of education	Primary school	40	40
	Secondary school	30	30
	University/polytechnic	15	15
	No formal education	15	15
	Total	100	100
Ethnicity	Hausa	40	40
	Fulani	25	25
	Yoruba	15	15
	ther (e.g., Nupe)	20	20
	Total	100	100

Table 2:

Experience of respondents on fruit-related activities

Experience	Frequency	Percentage
Less than 5 years	35	35
5-10 years	40	40
More than 10 years	25	25
Total	100	100

Ripening agents often used: Figure 3 illustrates the ripening agents commonly utilized in Birnin Kebbi. Calcium carbide emerged as the most frequently used agent, reported by 65% of respondents. Ethylene gas was the second most popular choice, used by 45% of respondents, while ethephon was used less frequently, with 20% indicating its use.

Knowledge of ripening agent application: Figure 4 shows the percentage of participants regarding the knowledge of ripening agents. The majority (96%) have no knowledge of ripening agent application, whereas only few (4%) participants have knowledge of ripening agent application.

Perception about the health risks of ripening agents: Figure 5 illustrates the participants perceptions regarding the health risks associated with artificial ripening agents. A significant majority (65%) strongly agreed that artificially ripened fruits pose health risks, while an additional 20% agreed. In contrast, 5% of respondents disagreed with this notion, and 10% remained neutral.

Perception of respondents about the taste and quality of ripened fruits: Figure 6 illustrates respondents perceptions of the taste and quality of artificially ripened fruits compared to naturally ripened ones. A combined 70% of respondents, categorizing their responses as “Worse” or “Much worse,” expressed the belief that artificially ripened fruits are of inferior taste and quality. Conversely, only 5% of participants considered the quality of artificially ripened fruits to be better.

Fig. 2: Fruits commonly ripened artificially in Birnin Kebbi

Fig. 3: Ripening agents frequently used by the respondents

Fig. 4: Knowledge on ripening agents

DISCUSSION

This study examines the demographic characteristics of fruit sellers in Birnin Kebbi and gathers critical information about artificial fruit ripening practices in the city. The research is significant as no prior study has addressed this issue in the region. Its findings will contribute to improving food safety and reducing potential health risks associated with the consumption of artificially ripened fruits.

Fig. 5: Perception of respondents about the health risks of ripening agents

Fig. 6: Perception of the respondents about the taste and quality of ripened fruits

The demographic analysis revealed that the majority of participants were male, predominantly aged 26-35 and 36-45 years, with primary and secondary education, and belonging to the Hausa and Fulani ethnic groups. Male dominance reflects the local cultural norms, where women primarily engage in domestic activities while men undertake economic responsibilities outside the home. The prominence of the Hausa and Fulani ethnic groups aligns with the native demographics of the region. The age distribution, concentrated in the 26-45 years range, represents the most active and economically productive workforce globally. The low educational attainment among fruit sellers suggests that this trade does not demand advanced education or technical expertise, making it accessible to individuals with limited formal education. Similar findings have been reported in other regions of Northern Nigeria. For example, Abdullahi et al.¹⁹ and Danladi et al.²⁰ observed male dominance, primary education levels, and youthful age groups (31-50 years) among apple sellers in Adamawa and Borno States, respectively. Conversely, studies in Lagos, Southwest Nigeria²¹.

Olayemi et al.²¹ and Yahaya et al.²², found a higher proportion of female fruit sellers, reflecting the reduced gender disparity in that region. However, both studies similarly reported the dominance of individuals with primary and secondary education and an average age range of 30-49 years. Notably, Yahaya et al.²² also highlighted the prevalence of Hausa individuals in the fruit trade in Lagos, suggesting a stronger inclination toward this occupation among the ethnic group.

Most respondents in this study had over five years of experience in fruit selling, which may explain their substantial awareness of artificial ripening agents. Bananas, mangoes, tomatoes, and plantains were identified as the most frequently ripened fruits in the region. These climacteric fruits require induced ripening to ensure marketability by enhancing flavor, texture, and uniform peel color, as noted by Maduwanthi and Marapana²³ and Ugbeni and Alagbaoso²⁴ Similarly, Orok et al.²⁵ reported that mangoes, bananas, papaya, and tomatoes are among the fruits commonly subjected to artificial ripening.

The survey also identified calcium carbide, ethylene gas, and ethephon as the primary ripening agents used by fruit sellers in Birnin Kebbi. Comparable findings were reported by Ekanem et al.²⁶ in Uyo, Nigeria, and Islam et al.²⁷, both of which documented the widespread use of these agents. However, the improper application of these chemicals can pose significant health risks to consumers. For instance, calcium carbide, when misused, can irritate gastric tissues and increase the risk of cancer, kidney damage, cardiovascular dysfunction, and diabetes²⁸. Ethylene gas exposure can impair oxygen supply to the brain, leading to prolonged hypoxia and potential kidney failure²⁹. Ethephon is associated with hepatotoxic effects and can cause severe skin and eye irritation¹⁵.

A majority of respondents acknowledged that artificially ripened fruits could pose health risks. They also expressed concerns about the impact of these chemicals on the taste and nutritional quality of fruits. These findings emphasize the need for regulatory interventions and public education to ensure the safe application of ripening agents and protect consumer health.

To address the challenges associated with artificial fruit ripening, several key recommendations are proposed. Firstly, government agencies and regulatory bodies should enforce strict guidelines on the use of artificial ripening agents through regular inspections and penalties to ensure public safety. Secondly, public awareness campaigns are essential to educate both fruit sellers and consumers about the health risks of improper ripening practices, while promoting safer alternatives. Training programs and workshops should be organized for fruit vendors to enhance their understanding of safe handling techniques. Moreover, the adoption of natural or non-chemical ripening methods, such as ethylene generators, should be encouraged due to their safety and sustainability. Collaboration with health authorities is also crucial for monitoring the public health implications of artificial ripening and implementing timely interventions. Lastly, further research is needed to investigate the socioeconomic factors driving these practices and to develop safer, cost-effective alternatives suitable for local conditions.

CONCLUSION

This study has provided critical insights into the demographic characteristics of fruit sellers in Birnin Kebbi and the practices associated with artificial fruit ripening in the city. The findings revealed that the majority of fruit sellers are male, aged 26-45 years, with primary or secondary education, and predominantly of Hausa and Fulani ethnic backgrounds. The study also highlighted the widespread use of artificial ripening agents such as calcium carbide, ethylene gas, and ethephon. While these agents are commonly used to enhance the commercial appeal of climacteric fruits like bananas, mangoes, tomatoes, and plantains, their improper application poses significant health risks, including gastrointestinal irritation, cancer, kidney damage, and other severe medical conditions. Furthermore, the perception of the majority of respondents that artificially ripened fruits compromise taste and nutritional quality underscores the need for safer and more sustainable ripening methods. This research has filled a critical knowledge gap by addressing a previously unexplored issue in Birnin Kebbi, providing data that can inform strategies to improve food safety and reduce health hazards associated with artificial fruit ripening practices.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

This study discovered the widespread use of artificial ripening agents, particularly calcium carbide, among fruit vendors in Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria, which can be beneficial for understanding public exposure risks and guiding food safety interventions. The findings revealed that most vendors had limited education and awareness regarding the safe use of ripening chemicals, highlighting a critical gap in knowledge and regulation. This insight is valuable for public health authorities aiming to develop effective policies to control harmful fruit ripening practices and promote safer alternatives. This study will help the researchers to uncover the critical areas of informal market practices and chemical usage that many researchers were not able to explore. Thus, a new theory on unregulated food handling and consumer risk may be arrived at.

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