Landscape of Indian Spice Exports and Sterilisation Practices

Current Status of Indian spice exports

India stands as a significant contributor to the global spice market, with exports valued at $4.4 billion for the financial year 2023-2024. This represents a remarkable increase of 12.3% compared to the previous year. The primary spices exported include chilli, spice oils and oleoresins, curry powder and paste, cumin, mint products, cardamom, and pepper.

The key markets for Indian spices extend across countries such as China, Bangladesh, various West Asian nations, and the United States.

Why Ethylene Oxide is Used for Sterilisation

In India, Ethylene Oxide (ETO) plays a critical role not as a pesticide, but as a sterilising agent. It is utilized to significantly reduce microbial load in finished spice products. Contamination typically arises in auction yards where spices are exposed to various contaminants including human contact, birds, reptiles, and insects.

High microbial levels present in large-scale factories necessitate the application of ETO for effective sterilisation. However, reducing early contamination through improved processing methods can lessen the dependency on ETO.

Preferred Method by the EU

The European Union has shown a distinct preference for steaming over ETO for sterilising spices. Although ETO is cost-effective at around ₹5 per kg, steaming is considerably pricier, costing between ₹20 to ₹25 per kg. The EU's stringent standards regarding ETO and pesticide residue levels are much stricter compared to the more relaxed regulations observed in the United States, where ETO usage is allowed.

Impact of Recent Recall

Recently, specific spice products from MDH and Everest Group faced recalls in Hong Kong and Singapore due to elevated ETO levels. Despite this setback, exports to these regions have resumed, and no significant long-term consequences are anticipated. This incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced compliance with international food safety standards.

Measures Taken by the Spices Board

In response to the recall, the Spices Board of India has implemented protocols aimed at preventing ETO contamination. They now require testing for ETO levels in shipments destined for Singapore and Hong Kong. Additionally, the Board is advocating for the harmonisation of international standards concerning ETO usage across various countries.

Chemistry Behind ETO and Steaming

Ethylene Oxide (ETO): ETO is a chemical compound renowned for its sterilisation capabilities. It effectively eliminates bacteria, fungi, and viruses by disrupting their DNA. As a gas at room temperature, ETO penetrates materials deeply, rendering it suitable for spice sterilisation.

Steaming: This method employs high-temperature steam to eradicate microorganisms. Although effective, steaming is more expensive than ETO. It involves exposing spices to controlled steam, effectively eliminating microbial contaminants without leaving any chemical residues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the current value of Indian spice exports?
Answer: Indian spice exports are valued at $4.4 billion for the financial year 2023-2024, showing a 12.3% growth from the previous year.

Q2. Why is Ethylene Oxide used in spice sterilisation?
Answer: Ethylene Oxide is used to reduce microbial load in spices, as it effectively kills bacteria and fungi. It is particularly necessary in large factories where contamination risks are higher.

Q3. How does the EU's preference for sterilisation methods differ from other regions?
Answer: The EU prefers steaming for sterilisation due to strict standards on ETO and pesticide residues, contrasting with the U.S. where ETO use is permissible.

Q4. What recent issue affected Indian spice exports?
Answer: Certain spice products from MDH and Everest Group were recalled in Hong Kong and Singapore due to high ETO levels, though exports have since resumed.

Q5. What measures has the Spices Board taken following the recall?
Answer: The Spices Board has instituted protocols to prevent ETO contamination and mandated testing for ETO levels in shipments to specific countries.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the estimated value of Indian spice exports in 2023-2024?
A) $3.5 billion
B) $4.4 billion
C) $5.0 billion
D) $4.1 billion
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which method is preferred by the EU for sterilising spices?
A) Chemical sterilisation
B) Ethylene Oxide
C) Steaming
D) Radiation
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: What was the consequence of the recent recall of spice products?
A) Permanent ban on exports
B) Resumption of exports
C) Increased prices
D) No impact on exports
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What does ETO stand for?
A) Ethylene Tetrate Oxide
B) Ethylene Oxide
C) Ethylene Tert-Butoxide
D) Ethyl Oxide
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Which of the following is a primary spice exported by India?
A) Saffron
B) Cardamom
C) Vanilla
D) Ginger
Correct Answer: B