Mumbai Authorities Probe Viral Video Showing Fruit Contamination

An alarming video making the rounds online seems to depict Mumbai vendors applying rat poison to fruits. The incident ignited a public outcry and prompted actions from authorities. It was first reported to have happened in Malad, where police received a complaint from Kunal Salunke, who provided video proof along with his statement on Wednesday (February 25, 2026).

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Viral Footage Sparks Immediate Public Health and Safety Concerns


In the viral clip, the vendor is seen holding a tube of Ratol ointment while handling bananas and allegedly saying, “Kharaab kele hain” (These bananas are spoiled). Bystanders can be heard confronting him. One man questions, “Bachche log khaate hain yeh aur tu yeh lagaa raha hai. Yeh kyun kar rahe ho?” (Children eat these, and you are applying this to them. Why are you doing this?)

Authorities Launch Investigation Into Alleged Food Contamination


The two accused fruit sellers have been arrested. Officers have recovered a substance identified as Ratol from the vendors' roadside stall. It is a commercially available rat-killing product that contains toxic chemicals such as yellow phosphorus. The shop has since been sealed.

The accused, named in police reports as Manoj Sangamlal Kesarwani (42) and Rahul Sadanlal Kesarwani (25), were produced before the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate at the Borivali court.

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The accused told police they used rat poison to prevent rodents from damaging the fruits. The authorities have termed the act extremely dangerous and unlawful, citing the potential for serious health consequences.

Consumer Protection and Market Surveillance Under Scrutiny


Residents have called for stricter and more frequent inspections by food safety authorities, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). 

The police have urged community members to report suspicious activity to minimize risks to public health and safety. In addition, health officials have stated that putting such a highly toxic substance on food products can pose dangers such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and organ damage.

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