Recent reports from the Deccan Herald shed light on alarming findings regarding the quality of Indian exports to the European Union (EU). Between 2019 and 2024, over 400 export quality products from India were flagged by the EU for containing contaminants. This adds to previous concerns about and contaminated Indian food exports where concerns were raised by the EU regarding cancer-causing chemicals found in 527 Indian products.
What is the concern?
The flagged products contained a range of harmful substances, including lead, mercury, and cadmium. These metals are known to cause damage to various organs. Particularly concerning was the presence of cadmium in products like octopus and squid. These increase the risk of chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular problems.
Pesticides were another significant issue, with at least 59 products found to contain carcinogenic pesticides. Some products even contained multiple pesticides, with as many as five different types detected. The use of chemicals like tricyclazole, a banned fungicide with carcinogenic properties, in rice, herbs, and spices further exacerbated the situation.
Globally, the fear of pest epidemics is attributed to trade and international transportation. Interestingly, it was recently revealed that the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) allowed to increase the maximum residue limit (MRL) to tenfold. This has caused concerns for the food safety of our country. Moreover, potentially toxic compounds, like 2-chloroethanol and ochratoxin A were found also in spice mixes and organic herbs.
Urgent action required
Such vital supplies being contaminated imposes health challenges to consumers in India. They also compromise India’s image as a source of exported goods whose quality is unrivalled. There were earlier instances where spice mixes from MDH Pvt Ltd and Everest were banned. Also with reports of contamination of salmonella in various items, issues of food safety in India have gained even more attention. The FSSAI has taken necessary measures to safeguard the welfare of the domestic consumer. However, the problem of contaminated exports remains formidable. Tighter regulations, quality control approaches that are effective, as well as efficient supervisory services are critical to resolve these issues. Besides, better coordination among regulatory bodies, exporters as well as producers are key to recovery from this lapse. It is important to take steps and regain credibility of Indian exports.
