Ltd to immediately recall a batch of pre-packed cumin powder after laboratory testing found pesticide residues above the prescribed maximum limits.
The action followed testing of a regulatory sample collected from the premises of Riverside Resorts & Holiday Homes Pvt Ltd in Goa. According to FSSAI, the Food Analyst’s report detected residues of Azoxystrobin and Thiamethoxam at levels exceeding the permitted limits and classified the sample as “unsafe” under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Everest Food Products was allowed to appeal against the initial findings. Following the appeal, the sample was sent to a Referral Food Laboratory for further examination. The referral laboratory also confirmed that the cumin powder was unsafe, with both Azoxystrobin and Thiamethoxam found above the prescribed maximum residue limits.
Based on the confirmation, FSSAI directed the company to recall the entire implicated batch of pre-packed cumin powder from the market with immediate effect.
The regulator has also instructed Everest Food Products to maintain complete records of the recalled product and submit details of the recall process. The company has further been directed to take corrective measures to prevent a recurrence and submit a compliance report after completing the recall.
FSSAI suspends bakery licence
In a separate enforcement action, FSSAI suspended the licence of Creative Bakers and Confectioners Pvt Ltd with immediate effect after inspections found severe hygiene deficiencies at the facility.
The regulator said the action formed part of its continuing enforcement efforts to ensure compliance with food-safety requirements and protect consumer health.
FSSAI has intensified surveillance and enforcement against food business operators in recent months, including manufacturers, food-service establishments and e-commerce platforms. The regulator has also increasingly used social media to make consumers aware of enforcement actions and food-safety concerns.
The latest action involving Everest highlights the importance of compliance with prescribed pesticide residue limits, particularly for spices and other food products where contamination can directly affect consumer safety.