‘Powdered spices likely to be adulterated,’ says ICMR; recommends consumers to choose this instead

In a move aimed at promoting food safety and addressing concerns over adulteration, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued a set of dietary guidelines for Indians (DGIs) encouraging consumers to opt for whole spices instead of powdered variants. 

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It mentions, “Since powdered spices are more likely to be adulterated, whole spices, uniform in colour, size and shape should be preferred. Always buy certified products.” 

The guidelines also state, “Safety of foods can be compromised due to microbial contamination, chemical contamination and adulteration. Natural enzymes present in food also lead to its deterioration over time. Besides, insects, rodents, adulterants, natural toxins and various chemical residues, present beyond permissible levels, make the food unsafe. In addition, moisture present in the food and some environmental conditions like humidity, temperature, storage time also influence the quality of the food.”

The advisory comes in the wake of mounting evidence suggesting that powdered spices are more susceptible to adulteration, after popular Indian spice manufacturers came under scrutiny for using high levels of pesticides in their spices. 

Monika Vasudeva, holistic nutritionist, dietitian, and founder of Optimus Nutrition Fitness, warns, “Consuming adulterated powdered spices can pose various health risks, including exposure to harmful substances like lead, artificial colours, pesticides, or other contaminants. These substances can have detrimental effects on health, leading to organ damage, allergic reactions, digestive problems, and long-term health complications.”

Make sure that you inspect the colour, texture, and aroma of the spices. (Source: Freepik)

Identifying and avoiding adulterated powdered spices

To effectively identify and avoid adulterated powdered spices in the market, Vasudeva suggests that consumers can purchase spices from reputable and trusted sources or brands known for their quality. They can also check for quality certifications or marks on spice packaging.

“Make sure that you inspect the colour, texture, and aroma of the spices; any unusual appearance may indicate adulteration. Opt for whole spices and grind them at home to reduce the risk of adulteration,” she asserts.

Benefits of using whole spices over powdered spices

Using whole spices over powdered ones offers several benefits, according to Vasudeva. These are:

*Whole spices retain their essential oils and nutrients, providing better flavour and health benefits.

*Grinding whole spices just before use preserves their freshness and potency.

*Whole spices add depth, complexity, and aroma to dishes, enhancing the culinary experience.

Process and challenges of detecting adulteration in spices in India

The process of detecting spice adulteration involves conducting various tests like High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to identify contaminants, Vasudeva informs. “Some challenges include sophisticated adulteration techniques and the need for advanced testing methods,” she admits.  

To ensure spice purity, the following measures need to be implemented

*Implementing stringent quality control standards and regular testing of spice samples.

*Methods for the detection of common adulterants through visual tests, chemical tests and physical tests.

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