The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has notified comprehensive regulatory standards for Basmati rice for the first time in India, which will come into force from August 1, 2023.
The Central government on Thursday informed that for the first time in India, FSSAI has proposed comprehensive regulatory norms for basmati rice, which will come into effect from August 1, 2023. It added that now basmati rice will have natural aroma characteristics and will be free from artificial colours, polishing agents and artificial fragrances.
Now natural fragrance will be the real identity-
The objective of implementing these measures is to establish fair practices in the trade of basmati rice. To protect consumer interest at domestic and global level. FSSAI has set accreditation criteria for Basmati rice through food safety and standards for the first time in the country. As per these criteria, Basmati rice should have natural aroma of rice and should be free from artificial colours, polishing agents and artificial fragrances. These standards also specify various identification and quality criteria for basmati rice.
Basmati rice is a premium variety of rice grown in the Himalayan foothills of the Indian subcontinent. Known globally for its long grain shape, unique natural aroma and taste. agro-climatic conditions of the specific geographical areas where basmati rice is grown; The method of harvesting, processing and aging the rice also contributes to the uniqueness of basmati rice. Due to its unique quality characteristics, Basmati is a widely used variety of rice domestically and globally. India accounts for two-thirds of its global supply.
Being a premium quality rice and fetching higher prices than non-basmati varieties, basmati rice is often mixed with other non-basmati rice varieties for economic gain. Therefore, in order to ensure the supply of certified genuine basmati rice in the domestic and export markets, FSSAI has notified regulatory standards for basmati rice, which are prepared in consultation with relevant government departments/agencies and other stakeholders.