IGI Logo

Indian spices have not been banned in Singapore and Hong Kong, though specific batches were recalled due to ethylene oxide contamination. The Singapore Food Agency imposed a temporary hold-and-test regime on these consignments. In response, the Indian Spices Board has mandated pre-shipment testing and issued comprehensive guidelines to ensure compliance with varying international safety standards.

Highlights

No Ban on Indian Spices in Singapore and Hong Kong: Indian spices have not been banned by Singapore and Hong Kong, but specific batches of spice mixtures were recalled due to ethylene oxide contamination.

Singapore's Hold-and-Test Regime: The Singapore Food Agency implemented a hold-and-test regime for one month on certain Indian spice consignments due to EtO levels exceeding permissible limits.

Spices Board's Preventive Measures: The Spices Board introduced mandatory pre-shipment testing and comprehensive guidelines for exporters to prevent EtO contamination in Indian spices.

Compliance with Indian Food Safety Standards: All food commodities in India, including spices, must adhere to the standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Regulations for domestic consumption.

NITI Aayog's Foodgrain Demand-Supply Projections: NITI Aayog’s 2024 report projects India’s foodgrain demand to be 303 million tonnes by 2025-26, with supply estimates at 332 million tonnes.

FPOs in India: As of June 2024, 8,875 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) have been registered under the government’s scheme, with ?630.3 crore paid-up capital and 19.6 lakh shareholder farmers.

Support for FPOs: The FPO scheme provided loans worth ?50.4 crore and a cumulative equity grant of ?210.1 crore to eligible FPOs by June 2024.

Conclusion

The clarification by the Indian government reassures that there is no blanket ban on Indian spices in Singapore and Hong Kong, despite the recall of certain batches. The Spices Board's proactive measures, including mandatory testing and detailed guidelines, aim to prevent future issues and maintain the credibility of Indian spice exports. As the global demand for safe and high-quality food products rises, adherence to these standards will be crucial for sustaining India's export markets.

Above views are of the author and not of the website kindly read disclaimer