Studies have observed detrimental effects in humans exposed to raw calcium carbide, such as

swollen lower lips, increased drooling, and chest, lip, and oral mucosa ulcers (Okeke et al. 2020;

Jindal et al. 2013). Additionally, Leukopoietin, interleukin-3 (IL-3), and prostaglandins-E2

(PGE2) levels in the body have been shown to decrease when calcium carbide-ripened fruits are

consumed (Martins and Chiamaka, 2021; Onwuka et al. 2022). These factors are essential for

supporting the development and differentiation of white blood cells as well as controlling

inflammation and immune response. A decrease in these leukocyte promoting factors can weaken

the body's immune system, making it more susceptible to infections and diseases.

After ingesting fruits that have been ripened with calcium carbide, stomach pain might result from

the alkaline nature of this chemical irritating the mouth, nose, and mucosal tissues in the abdomen.

(Islam et al., 2016; Essien et al., 2018). Moreover, Impurities in calcium carbide that are fat

soluble, such as arsenic and phosphorus, can dissolve in the fruit's wax coating and penetrate from

the peel to the flesh. When consumed, these toxic substances can accumulate in various organs of

the body and pose serious health problems, including blood cell depletion, inflammation

cardiovascular dysfunction, and diabetes mellitus (Onwuka et al., 2022; Ikhajiagbe et al., 2021; Ourna

et al., 2022). Numerous blood parameters, including haemoglobin (Hb), RBC (red blood cell)

counts, WBC (white blood cell) counts, PVC (packed cell volume), and other blood indices,

have been shown to be adversely affected by CaC2 (Dhembare, 2013). In another study disruptions

in the female reproductive system on consumption of calcium carbide ripened fruit in animal

models was observed, consuming fruits that have been ripened with calcium carbide changes the

physiology of female reproduction adversely, accelerates the inception of puberty, and raises blood

oestrogen levels (Bafor et al. 2019).