iGrain India - New Delhi. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in its new set of guidelines has suggested people to pay more attention to the use of whole spices instead of spice powders because there is a high possibility of adulteration in spice powders which is fatal for health.
In the 12th guideline - 'Consumer Safety and Clean Food Products', the council has given some tips to choose safe food items and has asked to ensure that there is no adulteration or presence of any kind of infection, mold, foreign elements and artificial colors etc.
It is worth mentioning that spices not only enhance the taste of food but they are also a storehouse of anti-oxidants. They help in managing new conditions of the body and health related conditions.
ICMR has suggested to be careful in purchasing spices while manufacturing food products. It says that there is a high possibility of adulteration in spice powders and mixes but adulteration is found very rarely in whole spices.
Even in whole spices, it is more beneficial to use products of similar colour, size and texture and hence their use should be given priority. The council advises that only certified products should be purchased.
It is noteworthy that recently a huge uproar has been created due to the presence of high levels of ethylene oxide in the spice mix of two leading brands and some countries have banned its import and use. These include Hong Kong, Nepal, Singapore and European Union etc.
All natural properties are present in whole spices and there is no need to adulterate them with any external elements.
If adulteration has taken place, it is detected immediately. On the other hand, the quality of spice powder always remains doubtful and now there is a flood of fake spice powder. This can pose a serious threat to health.