• UGI USER
  • May 16, 2024
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INDIA MANDATES ETHYLENE OXIDE TESTING FOR SPICE EXPORTS TO ASIA

Why in the news?

  • India has mandated testing and sampling of Ethylene Oxide residue for all spice shipments to Singapore and Hong Kong from May 7, 2024.
  • This follows reports of spice product recalls, ensuring safety and quality in Indian spice exports.
source:Resarchgate

About Ethylene Oxide (ETO):

  • Usage: ETO is an insecticide used as a fumigant for organic items, sterilising food, spices, and other products by eradicating bacteria, fungi, viruses, and bacterial spores.
  • Chemical Nature: Ethylene oxide is a clear, colourless, flammable gas with a sweet odour, dissolving easily in water. It is distinct from ethylene gas.
  • Health Risks: Classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, ETO can cause cancer. It primarily impacts the central nervous system, causing eye and mucous membrane irritation.
  • Regulation: Banned by the European Union (EU) in 2011 for fumigation of food and animal feed during transport and storage. ETO use is now only permitted for disinfection and sterilisation of medical devices.
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI):

  • Autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
  • Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
  • Vision:Ensure safe and nutritious food for citizens.
  • Responsibilities:Establish standards and guidelines for food articles.
  • Mission:Set globally benchmarked food standards.

Associated Article:

https://universalinstitutions.com/fssai-directs-states-to-test-spices-due-to-quality-concerns/