Is hormone-ripened pineapple a myth? Debunking Kerala’s most common fruit rumour

Kerala’s pineapples are known for their sweetness, aroma and bright golden flesh. Much of this reputation comes from the Vazhakkulam belt in Ernakulam, often called the state’s pineapple capital. The state grows pineapple on nearly 60,000 acres, producing close to six lakh tonnes of fruit every year. This brings in almost Rs 2,000 crore in revenue and supports thousands of farmers and food businesses.

With such a large industry behind a fruit loved across Kerala, it is no surprise that rumours about “harmful hormones” often spread during the season. But what is the truth?

How pineapple plants ripen
Pineapple plants respond to ethylene, a natural plant hormone that helps fruits ripen and flowers bloom. All plants make ethylene, but pineapple plants do not produce enough of it to flower together. When flowering is uneven, the crop matures in scattered stages, which makes harvesting difficult.

Why farmers use ethephon
To bring the plants into the same flowering stage, farmers use ethephon, a growth regulator approved by agricultural universities. After application, it slowly breaks down into ethylene. This helps the plants flower at the same time and later allows the fruits to ripen evenly on the plant.

It is a routine part of pineapple cultivation and does not make the fruit artificial in taste or quality.

How it is used in Kerala
As per Kerala Agricultural University:

• A 25 ppm diluted ethephon solution is used
• About 50 ml is poured into the centre of each plant
• The plants are usually 10 to 12 months old
• Fruits take about five and a half to six months to mature after treatment

Is it safe to eat?
Yes. The hormone is used well before the fruit forms, which means there is almost no chance of residue on the pineapple.

When farmers follow the waiting period before harvest, the remaining trace amounts stay within safe, scientifically accepted limits.

The flavour, sweetness and safety of the fruit are not affected.

Care needed only during handling
The only real risk is to farmers who handle the concentrated solution. It can irritate the skin if not diluted properly. This is why gloves and careful mixing are advised. Once it is absorbed by the plant, it does not pose a problem.

What it means for Kerala’s favourite fruit
Kerala’s pineapple gets its taste from its soil, weather and the care of its growers. Ethephon helps ensure uniform flowering and a steady supply of fruit. When used responsibly, it does not harm the consumer or change the character of the fruit.

So slice it fresh, toss it into a pachadi, blend it into juice or caramelise it on a pan. Kerala pineapple remains one of the safest and most delicious fruits of the season.