“Spices are like paints in a paint box, adding flavor and color to our lives.” – Madhur Jaffrey
So are Indian spices safe?
Indian spices, revered globally for their rich flavours, are now under the microscope. Icons like MDH and Everest have played a significant role in popularising these spices globally, but now are facing severe backlash due to safety concerns. With exports exceeding $4 billion annually and a domestic market valued at $10 billion, they are integral to both local and international cuisines.
Authorities in the US, Hong Kong, and Singapore have detected unsafe levels of ethylene oxide, a carcinogenic pesticide, in these spices, leading to widespread recalls and bans. The US FDA alone has rejected 31% of MDH products in the past six months, underscoring the severity of the issue. Such challenges highlight the urgent need for innovative solutions that ensure the safety and traceability of spices from farm to table.
The Need for Change: Government and Industry Response
Contamination issues in the Indian spice industry have persisted over time, indicating ongoing safety challenges. Past incidents such as the 2014 Kolkata study revealing lead in spices and recent seizures of adulterated products in Gujarat underscore these recurring problems.
In response to these persistent challenges, the Indian government has taken proactive steps. State authorities have been instructed to conduct rigorous quality tests, and both the Spices Board and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) have issued guidelines and are actively conducting sample tests to ensure adherence to safety standards. However, experts continue to emphasise the need for enhanced monitoring throughout the entire supply chain to effectively mitigate contamination risks and uphold the integrity of Indian spices on a global scale.
Krishify’s FARMWISE: Securing Spice Quality from Field to Fork
Krishify’s newly developed cloud-based platform, FARMWISE, revolutionises farm management by digitising operations and optimising sustainability. This platform is a game-changer for food and processing companies aiming to maintain the highest quality and safety standards. FARMWISE digitises and streamline farm management, ensuring sustainable and traceable farming practices.
How FARMWISE Transforms the Spice Industry:
- Complete Digitization: FARMWISE captures every detail from sowing to harvesting, ensuring full traceability.
- Enhanced Communication: The platform provides advisories, keeping farmers informed and aligned with best practices.
- Remote Monitoring: Using satellite data, FARMWISE automates farm health checks, identifying potential issues early.
- Real-time Quality Updates: Instant updates on farm quality and lab reports allow for prompt corrective actions.
- Data-driven Decisions: Detailed filters on harvest details and farming practices support informed decision-making.
Currently supporting cumin farmers in Rajasthan, FARMWISE focuses on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and organic production, ensuring spices are free from harmful pesticides.
Securing the Legacy of Indian Spices: Krishify’s FARMWISE for Trust and Traceability
Indian spices are the pride of global cuisine. With FARMWISE, Krishify provides the tools to ensure safety, traceability, and sustainability. It’s time for the industry to embrace this innovative solution and secure the legacy.
This innovative platform ensures safety, traceability, and sustainability throughout the supply chain. By adopting FARMWISE, the industry can uphold the highest standards, secure its legacy, and maintain global reputation.”
“Spice up your trust with FARMWISE – ensuring purity from farm to fork.”
