Imported durians may carry health risks if ripened with excessive chemicals, warns UPM expert Prof. Dr. Norsida Man. She explained that ethephon, a common ripening agent, releases ethylene gas to trigger ripening but can cause uneven texture, weak aroma, and unnatural taste if misused. While safe in controlled doses, overuse or rushed sales can lead to toxic effects and long-term health issues like hormonal disruption. The concern grows as demand for profit-driven, chemically altered durians rises, highlighting a tension between market needs and natural fruit quality.
