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The Union Health Ministry categorically dismissed recent media reports suggesting that the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) permits tenfold increases in pesticide residue levels in herbs and spices, labeling the claims as "false and malicious."

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Ministry reaffirmed India's adherence to stringent standards for Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs).

MRLs for pesticides, the Ministry clarified, are established based on comprehensive risk assessments tailored to specific food commodities.

"Pesticides fall under the purview of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, overseen by the Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee," the Ministry explained.

The Ministry emphasized the role of the FSSAI's Scientific Panel on Pesticides Residues in evaluating data from the Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee, culminating in recommendations for MRLs. 

These recommendations, the Ministry stressed, are formulated with meticulous consideration of dietary habits and health concerns across all demographic segments.

The Ministry disclosed that over 295 pesticides are registered in India, with 139 authorized for use in spices.

Different MRLs may apply to the same pesticide across various food commodities, reflecting nuanced risk assessments.

Addressing specific examples, the Ministry cited variations in MRLs for Monocrotophos, a pesticide permitted on multiple crops, including rice, citrus fruits, coffee beans, and cardamom.

The Ministry's statement comes in the wake of heightened scrutiny surrounding leading Indian spice brands MDH and Everest, following suspension orders in Hong Kong and Singapore due to elevated pesticide levels.