The Spices Board on May 07, 2024, issued comprehensive guidelines on preventing Ethylene Oxide (EtO) contamination in spices exported from India.
The following has been stated: -
•Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a flammable, colorless gas at room temperature. When used directly in the gaseous form or in non-explosive gaseous mixtures with nitrogen or carbon dioxide, EtO serves as a disinfectant, fumigant, sterilizing agent, and insecticide.
•The major use of EtO is the sterilization of medical equipment.
•In order to control the risks of food safety, it is necessary for both the regulatory authorities and food manufacturers to monitor ETO in foods. The MRLs of ETO for spices & herbs for various countries is attached as Appendix-1 & 2.
•Exporters of spices are encouraged to use alternate methods of sterilization as suitable.
a)Steam Sterilization
b)Irradiation (not applicable to organic products under NPOP)
c)Any other methods approved by FSSAI.
The detailed guidelines are given in the document below.
[Circular No.3/2024-25]
