Discover the reasons behind FSSAI's cancellation of spice producers' licenses.
Discover the reasons behind FSSAI's cancellation of spice producers' licenses.
Overview
Recently, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) took significant action against spice manufacturers. This post will discuss why FSSAI canceled the licenses of 111 spice producers and what it means for consumers.
Table of Contents
Why Were Licenses Canceled?
The FSSAI revoked these licenses after finding high levels of ethylene oxide in spice samples. Ethylene oxide is a chemical used for sterilizing spices, but in some cases, the levels were above the safety limits for certain international markets.
Affected Regions
Most of the affected spice producers are small businesses from Kerala and Tamil Nadu. There are also some from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. Many of these companies lack proper contact information, making it difficult to reach them.
Brands Under Scrutiny
Well-known spice brands like Everest, MDH, Catch, and Badshah are also being tested. So far, 2,200 samples have been tested, and the licenses of 111 producers have been canceled. Testing of an additional 4,000 samples is ongoing, which might lead to more cancellations.
Ensuring Spice Safety: What You Can Do
1. Look for the FSSAI Logo Check the packaging for the FSSAI logo or license number. All food products sold in India should display this information.
2. Verify Online Go to the FSSAI website (fssai.gov.in) and use the “Check FSSAI License” feature to verify the license number. This ensures the product meets FSSAI standards.
3. Check Manufacturer Details Ensure the manufacturer’s name and address are printed on the package. FSSAI-licensed producers must provide this information.
4. Be Cautious Be wary of brands that have had their licenses revoked. FSSAI recently canceled licenses for 111 spice producers due to safety concerns.
5. Buy from Reputable Sources Purchase spices from well-known brands and retailers that prioritize food safety and quality. Look for spices in clean, undamaged packaging.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the spices you buy are safe and meet FSSAI standards, giving you peace of mind when cooking for your family.
For more information on Indian spices, check out my previous post on this topic on AK News and Views.
