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India is taking a proactive approach to ensure the quality and safety of its spice exports. The government recently released detailed guidelines to prevent ethylene oxide (EtO) residue in spices, a carcinogenic chemical, in exported spices.
Stricter Testing and Monitoring
- Mandatory pre-shipment testing of spices for EtO residue is now required for exports to Singapore and Hong Kong.
- The Spices Board is conducting regular sampling of spices from exporters, with corrective actions taken when necessary.
These measures come after recent recalls of Indian spice brands in Singapore and Hong Kong due to EtO residue exceeding permissible limits.
Global Discrepancies
- Different countries have varying Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for EtO. For instance, the European Union allows a much lower limit compared to Singapore.
- The absence of a standardized global limit for EtO poses a challenge for exporters.
India’s Strong Export Performance
- Despite the recent challenges, India maintains a remarkably low rejection rate for spice exports.
- In 2023-24, a staggering 99.8% of the 1.4 million tonnes of exported spices met international quality standards.
- India is a major player in the global spice market, accounting for 12% of all spice exports worldwide.
The Ethylene Oxide Issue
- EtO is a fumigant commonly used in the food industry to control bacteria, yeast, and mold.
- However, improper aeration can lead to Ethylene Oxide Residue in Spices exceeding safe levels and raise health concerns.
- The impact of residual EtO and its byproduct, 2-chloroethanol (2-CE), on human health remains an ongoing scientific discussion.
