Health · Healthcare & Policy · 6 hrs ago
Maharashtra bans sale of loose spices over adulteration concerns
Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration has banned the sale of loose spices in the state to tackle adulteration.
Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said samples collected from sellers contained industrial dyes, including Sudan dye, Metanil Yellow and lead chromate.
These substances are known to cause cancer, according to Mundhe.
The FDA also warned against adding sawdust, artificial starch or brick powder to increase spice volume.
Manufacturers that use prohibited colours or chemicals could face prosecution and lose their licences.
Officials will inspect production sites, regulate storage and stop spices from being dried in unhygienic places such as roads or near drains.
The order is intended to protect public health, and the FDA says it will act against violations.
Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration has banned the sale of loose spices to prevent adulteration.
FDA commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said tests found cancer-causing industrial dyes in spice samples from sellers in the state.
The FDA said it would act against sellers who add substances such as sawdust, artificial starch or brick-derived powder to increase volume.
Manufacturers that use artificial colours or chemicals face prosecution and could lose their licences.
The state will regulate spice manufacturing, drying and storage, including preventing spices from being dried in unhygienic places.
- Who
- Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration, led by commissioner Tukaram Mundhe.
- What
- The FDA banned the sale of loose spices and announced enforcement measures against adulteration.
- When
- Thursday, according to the article published on October 15, 2026.
- Where
- Maharashtra, India.
- Why
- To prevent adulteration and protect citizens’ health from harmful dyes and other additives.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Authority
- Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration
- Commissioner
- Tukaram Mundhe
- Prohibited sale
- Loose spices
- Dyes found
- Sudan dye, Metanil Yellow and lead chromate
- Potential penalty
- Prosecution and loss of manufacturing licences
What people are saying
These are known carcinogens; action will also be taken against those who try to boost the volume of the spices by adding sawdust, artificial starch and other substances like powder derived from bricks.
There have been several instances where citizens' health has been endangered due to the use of artificial colours and dyes in spices. To ensure that citizens' health is not put at risk, we are today issuing a comprehensive compliance order.