Indian spices have not been banned by countries such as Singapore and Hong Kong, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Tuesday. In a written response, Anupriya Patel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, explained that specific batches of Indian spices were recalled by the Food Safety Authorities in Hong Kong and Singapore due to ethylene oxide (EtO) levels exceeding permissible limits. As part of its import surveillance, the Singapore Food Agency placed these spice consignments under a hold-and-test regime for one month.
Regarding government measures to ensure the safety and quality of Indian packaged foods for export and domestic sale, Patel noted that the Spices Board under the Ministry of Commerce has implemented several measures. These include mandatory pre-shipment testing for spices destined for these regions and the issuance of comprehensive guidelines for exporters to prevent EtO contamination at all stages—procurement, processing, packing, storage, and transportation—to comply with the varying EtO limits of importing countries.
Patel also highlighted the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)’s commitment to ensuring safe food products for consumers nationwide. The FSSAI conducts regular surveillance, monitoring, inspection, and random sampling of various food products, including dairy items, spices, and fortified rice, to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards under the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006. Non-compliance results in penal action against defaulting food business operators.
Additionally, the FSSAI has conducted nationwide surveillance on milk and milk products in 2011, 2016, 2018, 2020, 2022, and 2023, and has instructed states to use Food Safety on Wheels for rapid testing of milk and milk products. Surveillance on spices was also conducted across India in 2022.
The measures implemented by the Spices Board and the FSSAI underscore a robust commitment to maintaining the quality and safety of Indian food products. For businesses and exporters dealing with food safety regulations and compliance issues, Vakilsearch Legal Services offers essential support and expertise. Whether you are navigating international trade regulations or ensuring adherence to safety standards, Vakilsearch provides the legal guidance needed to address these challenges and protect your interests in the global market.
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