📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Vice President's Secretariat
Food
Maharashtra FDA Bans Sale of Loose Spice Powders to Protect Consumers
✍️ The Week
🗓 16 Oct 2026, 01:46 PM
👁 11
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has prohibited the sale of unpacked turmeric, chilli, and garam masala powders, citing concerns over contamination and quality control.
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a ban on the sale of loose spice powders, including turmeric, chilli, and garam masala, across the state. The decision follows a series of investigations that revealed contamination risks and inconsistent quality in unpacked spices.
Under the new directive, vendors are required to sell spices only in sealed, pre-packaged containers that meet the FDA’s safety standards. Retailers who continue to offer loose powders will face penalties and possible license revocation.
The FDA cited reports of microbial contamination and adulteration in several spice markets, prompting the agency to act swiftly to safeguard public health. Consumers are advised to purchase spices from authorized, sealed packaging to avoid potential health hazards.
State officials have urged spice traders to comply with the new regulations and to seek guidance from the FDA on proper packaging and labeling requirements. The ban is expected to take effect immediately, with enforcement teams conducting inspections in major spice bazaars.
The move aligns with broader efforts across India to tighten food safety standards and reduce the prevalence of contaminated food products.
Under the new directive, vendors are required to sell spices only in sealed, pre-packaged containers that meet the FDA’s safety standards. Retailers who continue to offer loose powders will face penalties and possible license revocation.
The FDA cited reports of microbial contamination and adulteration in several spice markets, prompting the agency to act swiftly to safeguard public health. Consumers are advised to purchase spices from authorized, sealed packaging to avoid potential health hazards.
State officials have urged spice traders to comply with the new regulations and to seek guidance from the FDA on proper packaging and labeling requirements. The ban is expected to take effect immediately, with enforcement teams conducting inspections in major spice bazaars.
The move aligns with broader efforts across India to tighten food safety standards and reduce the prevalence of contaminated food products.