The Food Safety And Standards Authority Of India (FSSAI) recalled the ‘Everest’ brand of cumin powder of excessive presence of pesticide residues up to levels where it was declared ‘Unsafe’ under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006., as per a notification from the organisation on Sunday.
“The food analyst’s report found pesticide residues of Azoxystrobin and Thiamethoxam at levels exceeding the prescribed maximum limits,” the notification said.
The FSSAI drew a regulatory sample of “pre-packed cumin powder” from the premises of M/s Riverside Resorts & Holiday Homes Pvt. Ltd., Goa.
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The food business operator (FBO) was given an opportunity to appeal against the food analyst’s findings, following which the sample was referred to the Referral Food Laboratory. Following the findings, the entire implicated batch of Everest pre-packed cumin powder, bearing Batch No. E080668761, was ordered to be recalled immediately from the market.
The FBO was also directed to maintain complete records of the recalled product and submit the prescribed recall information and status reports within the stipulated timelines. It was further asked to undertake corrective measures to prevent a recurrence of the incident and submit a report upon completion of the recall.
The FSSAI further suspended the license of M/S Creative Bakers And Confectioners Pvt., citing severe hygiene and sanitation issues.
The regulator said severe hygiene and sanitation deficiencies were observed at the premises, including dirt, grease, dust, cobwebs and flies in food production and handling areas.
Perishable raw materials were found stored openly, while rusted and inadequately cleaned containers were being used for raw and semi-finished products, it said.
Significant pest infestation and inadequate pest-control measures were also observed, including ineffective fly control, absence of proper rodent-control measures and openings and windows without insect-proof mesh. The inspection further found waste, old stock, rejected lots and scrap accumulated in food-handling areas, along with rusting equipment, flaking paint, dampness and broken floor tiles.
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The FSSAI also flagged deficiencies in food safety records and systems, including water and finished-product testing, time-temperature monitoring, calibration, preventive maintenance, mock recall, consumer complaints, training and audit records. The FSSAI Licence of M/s Creative Bakers and Confectioners Pvt. Ltd. has been suspended with immediate effect, the regulator said.
The FBO has been directed to cease all food business activities during the suspension period.
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