Papaya, pumpkin pulp allegedly used in fake mango juice across Gujarat

A potentially dangerous racket involving adulterated mango juice has come under the scanner in Gujarat, with authorities and health experts warning that consumers may be unknowingly drinking a cocktail of chemicals and low-cost substitutes instead of real fruit.

Officials and experts have flagged a pricing anomaly in the market, where premium mangoes are retailing at around ₹250 per kg, while so-called “pure mango juice” is being sold for as little as ₹200 per kg. Traders and health experts say the economics raise serious questions, as one kilogram of mango typically yields only 400–500 grams of juice.

The discrepancy has led to allegations that some vendors are diluting mango pulp with cheaper alternatives such as papaya and pumpkin to increase volume and reduce costs.

Large advertisements promoting mango juice have been seen across several areas of Ahmedabad, from older city localities to newer residential zones. However, preliminary checks have reportedly revealed widespread adulteration practices.

As per officials, traders are allegedly mixing papaya and pumpkin pulp, which are naturally sweet, and further enhancing the taste with excessive sugar or artificial sweeteners. In some cases, banned synthetic colours are said to be used to replicate the characteristic hue of mango pulp, raising concerns over potential health risks, particularly to the liver and kidneys.

Artificial flavouring agents are also reportedly added to mimic the aroma of premium varieties such as saffron mango, misleading consumers about the authenticity of the product.

The health department of the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has recently collected samples from multiple outlets. Preliminary findings indicate that some products were prepared under unhygienic conditions, with instances of juice being extracted from overripe or spoiled fruit and preserved using additives before being sold.

Medical professionals have cautioned consumers to remain vigilant. A city-based doctor noted that if raw mango prices are high, ready-made juice being sold at significantly lower rates is unlikely to be genuine.