New Delhi, May 5: Is the Indian food regulator allowing a tenfold increase in pesticide residue limits in Indian herbs and spices? Recent reports have suggested so, sparking concerns about food safety standards. However, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) swiftly denied these claims, labelling them as "false and malicious" through a press release. FSSAI clarified that India maintains stringent standards for Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs), positioning itself as a global leader in food safety.

According to a report by ZEE Business, clarifying the situation, FSSAI highlighted that while the MRL for pesticides has been raised from 0.01 mg/kg to 0.1 mg/kg in spices, this increase is applicable only to pesticides not registered in India by the Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIB & RC). Furthermore, FSSAI aligns its standards with those set by international bodies like the Codex Alimentarius Commission and the European Union, ensuring adherence to global norms. FSSAI Certified Nearly 100 Prisons As Eat Right Campuses, Says Central Government.

Contrary to recent reports, FSSAI emphasised that the increase in MRLs is based on risk assessment data and recommendations from scientific panels. This dynamic approach to MRLs allows for regular revisions informed by the latest scientific findings, maintaining food safety standards at par with international benchmarks. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential consequences of this relaxation in MRLs. Critics argue that the increased pesticide limits could lead to more rejections of Indian spices in international markets and may compromise consumer health.

Calls for transparency and data-backed justifications for the decision have been made, urging FSSAI to substantiate the revisions. Recent bans on certain spice brands by countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Maldives due to high pesticide content underscore the importance of stringent regulations. While the banned brands deny the allegations, the incident highlights the significance of robust monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to safeguard public health. FSSAI Asks Food Vendors, Consumers To Stop Using Newspapers for Packing, Storing and Serving Food.

In conclusion, while allegations of a tenfold increase in pesticide residue limits in Indian herbs and spices have sparked controversy, FSSAI maintains its commitment to ensuring food safety through evidence-based regulations and alignment with international standards. Transparency and scientific rigour remain paramount in addressing concerns and upholding consumer confidence in food safety standards.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 05, 2024 01:09 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).