This is with reference to the report “‘Chemical upsized’ watermelons spark fears” (May 4). I believe these fears are unwarranted, as using chemicals to increase produce and to speed up the growth of fruit and vegetables has become a global practice. It is not just watermelons that are being treated chemically; most of the fruit and vegetables, poultry and meat we consume is either genetically modified or chemically treated for one reason or another.

However, I am pleased that people in Saudi Arabia have finally raised this issue. It has become a huge topic in the West due to the hazards such products pose to human health. Such procedures may help the producers or companies earn an extra dime but the impact of such products is too grave on the human health to be ignored. It is really sad that just a few decades ago, a huge media campaign was launched for the promotion of processed food. Now, the same media is calling for the promotion of organic food. We create problems ourselves and remain quiet till they snowball into crises.