Maharashtra FDA Bans Loose Spice Sales and Prohibits Harmful Additives
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the sale of loose, unpackaged spice powders and mixed spices statewide to combat adulteration and ensure food safety. The order, issued by Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, mandates that all spices be packed and sealed at the production site. It prohibits the use of harmful colouring agents like Metanil Yellow and Rhodamine B, adulterants such as brick powder and chalk, and the sterilisation of spices using ethylene oxide. The directive also enforces strict hygiene standards and requires valid FSSAI licences for all operators.
First-hand measurement across 2 sources
We measured how 2 outlets covered this story. No outlet gave this story a measurable political slant — there is no left–right reading to report. Overall sentiment is neutral (58/100). Lens Score 62/100.
Outlets measured: thehindu, indiatoday. See how each one headlined and framed the same story in the source comparison below.
AI Analysis
Sentiment was consistent across outlets (50–65/100), indicating broadly factual reporting rather than editorialising.
Coverage timeline
indiatoday broke this story on 15 Oct, 02:13 pm. Other outlets followed.