The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has mandated the immediate recall of Shalimar's Chef Coriander Powder and Carrageenan after tests revealed dangerous levels of pesticides and cadmium.
- Shalimar's Chef Coriander Powder failed pesticide residue tests.
- Carrageenan by Aquagri Processing Pvt Ltd exceeded permissible cadmium limits.
- FSSAI declared both products 'unsafe' under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an urgent recall order for Shalimar's Chef Coriander Powder and Carrageenan, citing severe non-compliance with established food safety standards. This regulatory crackdown targets Nilgiri Oil & Allied Industries (linked to the coriander powder) and Aquagri Processing Pvt Ltd (the manufacturer of Carrageenan).
In the case of the coriander powder, samples collected from the premises of Nilgiri Oil & Allied Industries were found to contain pesticide residues far exceeding the permissible limits. Despite the company's appeal and a subsequent retest, the product remained non-compliant, leading the regulator to officially classify it as "unsafe" under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Simultaneously, a regulatory sample of Carrageenan produced by Aquagri Processing Pvt Ltd was flagged for excessive cadmium levels. A Referral Food Laboratory upheld the initial findings after an appeal, confirming that the product posed a potential health risk to consumers.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this action is part of a broader, more aggressive regulatory wave across India. The recent raids by the Maharashtra FDA, led by Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, have created a ripple effect, forcing the FSSAI to tighten its scrutiny of packaged foods. This signifies a shift from reactive monitoring to proactive enforcement, signaling to food business operators that quality lapses will result in immediate market expulsion.
"The presence of heavy metals like cadmium and synthetic pesticide residues in staple spices is a systemic failure in quality control that necessitates stringent recall protocols."
Consequently, both manufacturers have been directed to execute a full recall under the Food Safety and Standards (Food Recall Procedure) Regulations, 2017. This process involves removing all affected batches from retail shelves and implementing corrective measures to prevent future contamination.
Product Violation Summary
| Product | Manufacturer | Contaminant | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shalimar Coriander Powder | Nilgiri Oil & Allied | Pesticide Residues | Unsafe / Recalled |
| Carrageenan | Aquagri Processing | Cadmium | Unsafe / Recalled |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Should I stop using Shalimar Coriander Powder immediately?
Yes, if you possess the affected batches, it is advised to stop consumption and return the product to the vendor.
Q2: What is Carrageenan and why was it recalled?
Carrageenan is a thickening agent used in various processed foods. It was recalled because it contained cadmium levels exceeding safety limits.
