COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF PLANTAIN RIPENED WITH CALCIUM CARBIDE AND ASHES ON THE PHYSIOLOGY OF RATS

This study investigated the comparative physiological effects of plantains ripened with calcium carbide versus wood ash on albino rats. Twenty albino rats were divided into four groups: control (standard feed only), calcium carbide-ripened plantain, ash-ripened plantain, and naturally ripened plantain groups. The study evaluated liver function, kidney function, and antioxidant parameters across a three-week feeding period Results revealed significant variations in antioxidant parameters across treatment groups, with calcium carbide-ripened plantain (SB) inducing severe oxidative stress in rats. SB group demonstrated markedly reduced antioxidant enzyme activities in serum, kidney, and liver tissues, including SOD (5.25±0.53, 3.01±0.36, 4.26±0.19 U/mg protein respectively), CAT (0.74±0.20, 1.08±1.02, 7.04±0.14 µmol/min/mg-protein), GPx (7.44±0.06, 9.80±0.40, 14.39±1.17 mg/100 mg tissue), and GSH (6.41±0.32, 1.18±0.10, 7.19±0.63 mmole/min/mg-protein), accompanied by elevated MDA levels indicating increased lipid peroxidation. Ash-ripened plantain (SA) maintained or enhanced antioxidant capacity across all tissues with values comparable to or exceeding control group, while naturally ripened plantain (SC) showed similar protective effects. These findings suggest calcium carbide ripening compromises antioxidant defense systems and induces oxidative damage, while ash ripening presents a potentially safer alternative.. The study recommends strengthened regulatory monitoring of artificial ripening practices and promotes the use of safer, traditional ripening methods.