FSSAI Proposes Changes to Pesticide Residue Limits in Tea
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has published draft amendments to the Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Regulations, 2011, proposing revised Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for two pesticides in tea. What are Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs)? Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) define the highest permissible
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has published draft amendments to the Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Regulations, 2011, proposing revised Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for two pesticides in tea.
What are Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs)?
Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) define the highest permissible concentration of pesticide residues allowed in or on food commodities when pesticides are used in accordance with approved agricultural practices.
Key Highlights of the Draft Notification
Published in the Gazette of India on 16 October 2026, the draft proposes the following MRLs for tea:
- Acetamiprid: 20 mg/kg
- Imidacloprid: 50 mg/kg
Why are these pesticides used?
Acetamiprid and Imidacloprid are insecticides used in agriculture to control a range of pests, including aphids, whiteflies and other crop-damaging insects. Imidacloprid is also used to manage certain soil-dwelling pests.
What Should Food Businesses Know?
The proposed limits aim to update the regulatory framework governing pesticide residues in tea and establish permissible residue levels for these substances.
Since this is a draft notification, stakeholders can submit their objections or suggestions to FSSAI within the prescribed consultation period. Tea manufacturers, processors, importers and other food businesses should review the proposed limits and assess their potential impact on sourcing, production and quality control practices.
For more information, please refer to the official source: Pesticide Residue Limit in Tea
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