| Abstract |
Chilli is a main earner in India’s spice exports. Recent incidents of adulteration of chilli powder (by carcinogenic dyes) by some unscrupulous and careless exporters led to large-scale product recalls in the UK and tainted the image of Indian spices. This resulted in a complete shake up of the sector, leading to the introduction of mandatory and expensive testing, certification, stringent safety regulations, food recall, and threats by EU of banning imports from India.
This study focuses on the events that led to this as well as the status of food safety regulations in India. The role of the Spices Board of India which has been instrumental in protecting the brand image of Indian spices export is examined. The case revolves around the Board, the choices it had, and the possible implications towards damage control and prevention. |