Experts expose watermelon injection claims as disinformation campaign
LAHORE: Amidst growing concerns over alleged watermelon injections to enhance their color artificially, experts have stepped forward to dispel the rumors, labeling them as part of a disinformation campaign.
Former Director General of Punjab Agriculture Department, Dr. Anjum Ali Butar, dismissed the notion of injecting watermelons to induce redness, affirming that imported seeds are now readily available in the market, ensuring high-quality crops without the need for artificial manipulation.
Addressing the issue, a technical team from the Punjab Food Authority highlighted the use of Ethrosin, a permissible food colorant, which might have led to misconceptions regarding watermelon adulteration. Experts reiterated that puncturing a watermelon would lead to spoilage within hours, making sustained injection-based coloration implausible.
Despite social media speculation, Punjab Food Authority spokesperson reassured the public, stating that thorough inspections across various markets revealed no instances of watermelon inoculation.
Expressing concern over the false narratives, farmers urged caution against falling prey to such misinformation, suggesting vested interests might be behind the propaganda.
Amir Butt, a seasoned fruit vendor, echoed similar sentiments, dismissing claims of watermelon injections as baseless. Notably, investigations into viral videos revealed many originating from India, further fueling suspicions of a coordinated disinformation campaign.
As the debate rages on, experts emphasize the importance of discerning fact from fiction, urging consumers to rely on trusted sources for accurate information regarding food safety.
