The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has prohibited the sale of loose and unpackaged spice powders and blended masalas across the state. The order was issued on Thursday, October 15, 2026, as part of efforts to curb food adulteration and improve food safety.
Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe issued the directive, instructing manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, e-commerce platforms and commercial kitchens involved in the spice supply chain to comply with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA), 2006.
Which Spices Are Covered by the Ban?
The restriction applies to a wide range of commonly used spices, including turmeric, red chilli, coriander, cumin, black pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, asafoetida and saffron. Garam masala and other blended spice varieties are also covered by the order.
Under the new directive, spice powders and mixed masalas must be packed and sealed at the manufacturing facility before they are distributed or sold. The measure is intended to improve oversight of products throughout the supply chain.
FDA Tightens Rules to Prevent Adulteration
According to the FDA, the decision aims to strengthen product traceability and reduce the possibility of adulteration and contamination. Selling spices in properly sealed packaging is expected to make it easier to identify products and verify their source.
The directive applies to businesses across the supply chain, requiring them to review their existing practices and bring their operations in line with the prescribed food safety requirements.
What Information Must Spice Packages Display?
The FDA has also specified stricter labelling requirements for packaged spices. Products must carry essential information to help consumers identify what they are purchasing and check the product’s origin and validity.
The required details include the product name, ingredients, manufacturer’s information, FSSAI licence number, batch number, manufacturing or packing date, and use-by or best-before date. Other mandatory declarations must also be included as required under the applicable regulations.
The order is intended to improve transparency in the spice market while strengthening measures to protect consumers from adulterated or contaminated products.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is based on the information provided. Readers and businesses should consult official Maharashtra FDA notifications and applicable food safety regulations for the complete details, scope and implementation of the directive.
