Maharashtra FDA Bans Sale of Loose Spice Powders; Here's Why
The Maharashtra FDA has banned the sale of loose and unpackaged spice powders statewide to curb adulteration. Issued by Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, the order mandates sealed packaging at manufacturing sites, strict FSSAI licensing, detailed labelling, hygiene standards, and valid proof for organic or purity claims across all food sellers.
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The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has prohibited the sale of loose and unpackaged spice powders and mixed spices across the state, implementing rigorous norms for packaging, labelling, hygiene, and quality control as part of a broader crackdown on food adulteration. Under an official order issued by Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, all entities engaged in the production, processing, storage, transportation, distribution, and sale of spices must strictly comply with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and its associated regulations.
Scope and Traceability Requirements
The directive applies to a wide range of essential items, including turmeric, chilli, coriander, cumin, black pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, asafoetida, saffron, garam masala, and various blended spice mixtures, reports IANS. The rules encompass manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, traders, e-commerce platforms, hotels, restaurants, caterers, and institutional kitchens. Has Tukaram Mundhe Left Maharashtra FDA? Here Is What the Commissioner Said.
Under the updated framework, spice powders and blended spice products must be packaged and sealed at the manufacturing site prior to distribution or retail sale. The FDA noted that the measure is designed to improve supply chain traceability and mitigate risks associated with product adulteration and contamination.
Labelling, Licensing, and Hygiene Mandates
The regulator has introduced stricter labelling guidelines for packaged goods. All containers must prominently feature:
- Product name and ingredient list
- Manufacturer details
- FSSAI licence number
- Batch number
- Manufacturing or packing date
- Best-before or use-by date, alongside other mandatory statutory declarations
Additionally, food businesses are prohibited from making unverified claims concerning product purity, organic origin, natural composition, or health attributes without proper substantiation. The FDA emphasized that commercial spice manufacturing or grinding requires a valid licence or registration directly from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), noting that a standard trade licence is insufficient. Brijwasi in Malad and Zepto Bhandup Face Licence Suspension in Maharashtra FDA Crackdown.
The order also mandates strict employee hygiene protocols, regular medical fitness screenings, formal training for food handlers, and the implementation of a comprehensive Food Safety Management System across all operational facilities.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 16, 2026 08:16 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
