The FSSAI, a food regulator, plans to initiate quality Inspection of food products such as fortified rice, dairy products, and spices that are available in the local market.
This decision follows an investigation into potential breaks of regulations in branded spices and a controversy surrounding the addition of added sugar in Nestle’s Cerelac baby cereals.
The FSSAI in India is preparing to inspect various food items including fruits and vegetables, fish products for salmonella, spices and culinary herbs, fortified rice, and milk and dairy products.
In response to quality concerns raised by Singapore and Hong Kong, samples of powdered spices from various brands, such as MDH and Everest, are currently being collected nationwide by FSSAI. It is important to note that FSSAI does not supervise the quality of spices intended for export.
Recently, Hong Kong’s Center for Food Safety (CFS) advised consumers against purchasing and traders against selling certain products, including MDH’s Madras Curry Powder, Everest Fish Curry Masala, MDH Sambhar Masala Mixed Masala Powder, and MDH Curry Powder Mixed Masala Powder.
India’s Spices Board has mandated testing for ETO for all spices exported to Hong Kong and Singapore. This requirement came into effect on May 6. The board stated that all spice shipments, including ready-to-eat (RTE) products, bound for Singapore and Hong Kong must be go with by a valid analytical report for ETO issued by the Spices Board.
MDH clarified that it does not use ETO in any stage of its spice production, while Everest stated that all its products undergo strict quality control measures. Everest also denied reports of being banned in Singapore and Hong Kong, explaining that the orders were simply for product recall and further inspection.
While FSSAI continues to increase its enforcement on spice brands that fail to meet quality standards, other manufacturers claim to comply with all regulations and undergo strict testing procedures.
Date : 18 May 2023 Time : 10 AM to 05 PM Faculty : Asmita Thaokar (FSSAI National Level Resource Person)
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