The Indian government has denied claims that its food regulator, FSSAI, permits high levels of pesticide residues in spices and herbs, following a ban on two Indian spice brand products in Hong Kong and Singapore for alleged pesticide contamination. The government stated that India has some of the world's strictest pesticide residue limits, which vary for different food items based on risk assessments.

The clarification comes amid a ban imposed by the Hong Kong food regulator on certain spice mixtures of two leading Indian brands, MDH and Everest, on the claimed presence of pesticide Ethylene Oxide in their samples. Additionally, one spice product under the Everest brand had to be recalled by the Singapore food regulator.

In order to make sure branded spices supplied in domestic markets meet its quality standards, the FSSAI is now gathering samples of these spices, including MDH and Everest. It has no control over the quality of spices that are exported.

According to the risk assessment, the Union Health Ministry has emphasized that maximum residue levels vary for different food products. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is reportedly allowing ten times higher pesticide residues in herbs and spices, according to certain media sources. These reports are false, according to the Ministry.

The modification came after a few media reports stated that FSSAI permitted ten times higher levels of pesticide residue in spices and herbs. The MRL for a pesticide in herbs and spices was increased by the FSSAI to 0.1 mg/kg from 0.01 mg/kg in an order that was issued on April 8. "Various representations" were the regulator's justification for this upward modification.

According to the FSSAI statement, the Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee (CIB and RC), established by the Insecticide Act of 1968, is responsible for overseeing pesticide regulations on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

More than 295 pesticides have been registered in India by the CIB and RC, 139 of which are approved for use on spices. Of the 243 pesticides that have been adopted by the International Codex Alimentarius Commission on Pesticide Residues, 75 of them are suitable for use with spices. As part of the Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme, the Codex panel was established to create food standards.

The current criteria issued by the European Union and the Codex Alimentarius Commission, which are continuously reviewed based on scientific findings, are in alignment with India's maximum residue levels.

Based on data from science, the MRLs are dynamic and frequently updated. According to FSSAI, this procedure guarantees that MRLs are updated on a valid scientific foundation, taking into account current research and international standards. It also complies with worldwide standards.

The statement from the government confirms its commitment to maintaining strict guidelines for food safety and ensuring consumer safety, despite global concerns over pesticide residues in spices and herbs.

(Input from various media sources)

(Rehash/ Susmita Bhandary/MSM)