12% of tested spice samples fail quality, safety standards

• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India conducted inspections, sampling and testing of mixed spice blends after high levels of a pesticide found.

Key Points:

• A significant portion (nearly 12%) of Indian spice samples failed quality and safety tests.
• Global concerns emerged following high pesticide levels in popular Indian spice brands, leading to import restrictions by several countries.

Government Response

• India's food safety authority conducted inspections and tests.
• Action was taken against non-compliant companies.
• However, detailed reports on failed samples were not made public.

Industry Impact

• India is a global leader in spice production and export.
• Spice exports reached a record $4.46 billion in the fiscal year ending March 2023.
• The spice industry is a major economic contributor.
• India's domestic spice market was valued at $10.44 billion in 2022.
• Contamination issues could damage India's reputation and market share.

Prelims takeaway:

• FSSAI