The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has recently issued new guidelines recommending consumers opt for whole spices rather than powdered ones due to higher risks of contamination. This advisory aims to promote safer food choices and reduce health risks associated with adulterated spices.
Importance of Spices and Concerns
Spices play a vital role in enhancing the flavor of food and are rich sources of antioxidants with potential health benefits. However, concerns about contamination and adulteration have raised alarms regarding the safety of powdered spices, prompting the ICMR to issue precautionary measures.
ICMR Guidelines on Safe Food Consumption
In its guidelines, the ICMR emphasizes the importance of choosing safe and clean foods to prevent contamination by infestation, mold, foreign objects, and artificial coloring. The advisory, titled “Guidelines 12-Consume safe and clean foods,” underscores the significance of cautious food selection, especially when it comes to spices.
Whole Spices vs. Powdered Spices
The ICMR advises consumers to prefer whole spices over powdered ones due to the latter’s higher susceptibility to adulteration. Whole spices, characterized by consistent size, shape, and color, are less likely to be tampered with, ensuring better quality and safety for consumers.
Ensuring Safe Food Choices
To assist consumers in making informed decisions, the ICMR recommends purchasing certified products from reliable sources. This precautionary measure aims to mitigate concerns related to pesticide residues and adulteration, particularly in widely used spice mixes from brands like MDH and Everest.
ICMR’s Comprehensive Approach
The ICMR, in collaboration with the National Institute of Nutrition, has published 17 new dietary guidelines tailored to Indian dietary habits and age groups. These guidelines encompass various aspects of food safety, including recommendations for eggs, meat, vegetables, dairy products, and vegetable oils.
Key Recommendations for Safe Food Consumption
The ICMR emphasizes the importance of obtaining vegetable oils from reputable sources to minimize the risk of adulteration. It also advises consumers to exercise caution when purchasing fats and oils sold loose, ensuring they originate from trustworthy suppliers. Additionally, the ICMR recommends opting for pasteurized milk and milk products to ensure quality and safety.
