Food safety issues in spices and herbs - Indian perspective: A review

Spices and herbs constitute an important group of horticultural commodities, which have been considered indispensable in the culinary arts for flavouring a wide range of foods. Though used and consumed in small quantities, spices and herbs can be of concern as regards food safety, and assessment of their risks, therefore, has become important. The current review provides an overview on various issues related to food safety of spices and herbs from an Indian perspective. The food safety issues have been elaborated mainly as physical impurities, residues of pesticides, mycotoxins, metallic and microbiological contaminants. The article provides a brief view of the provisions made by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. The food safety aspects elaborated in various Codes of Practices relating to safety aspects of spices developed by Codex Alimentarius are also referred. Exports of spices from India and issues involved in it are covered.