Food safety authority denies claims of high pesticide in Indian herbs, spices
Food safety authority denies claims of high pesticide in Indian herbs, spices
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has dismissed the claims that it has permitted high pesticide residue in Indian herbs and species and termed the reports floating on the internet as “false and malicious”. The food safety authority was reacting to reports claiming that FSSAI allows 10 times more pesticide residue in herbs and spices.Â
“It is clarified that India has one of the most stringent standards of Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) in the world and MRLs of pesticides are fixed differently for different food commodities based on their risk assessments,” a statement read.
The food safety panel also asserted that India regulates pesticides rigorously to safeguard public health.
A stir ensued following the discovery by the Center for Food Safety (CFS) in Hong Kong of ethylene oxide, a banned pesticide, in pre-packaged spice products sourced from MDH and another renowned Indian brand, Everest.
FSSAI also clarified that MRLs for pesticides are established based on comprehensive risk assessments conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare through the Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee, established under the Insecticide Act, 1968.Â
These assessments consider various factors including dietary consumption patterns and health concerns across all age groups of the Indian population, it said.
India’s regulatory framework encompasses over 295 registered pesticides, with 139 approved for use in spices alone. Moreover, the authority emphasises that pesticides are registered for specific crops with varying MRLs based on risk assessment data.
For instance, the pesticide Monocrotophos has different MRLs for various crops such as rice, citrus fruits, coffee beans, and cardamom.
To address concerns regarding pesticides not registered by CIB & RC, FSSAI has adopted MRLs in alignment with international standards set by organisations like Codex Alimentarius Commission.Â
These standards undergo regular revisions based on scientific data to ensure compliance with global norms and reflect the latest findings in food safety.
In light of recent updates from Codex, FSSAI said that it is committed to aligning with international standards and emphasises that MRL revisions are conducted on a scientifically valid basis to uphold food safety and quality standards in India.
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