FSSAI looks to train tea planters to help reduce pesticide levels
safefoodmitra.com · 2024-03-18 09:06:41
Tea planters in the country are being sensitized and trained to reduce pesticide levels in tea, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said in a statement after conducting such a workshop in Coonoor district of Tamil Nadu.
A session was held on Friday to ensure safe and hygienic production of tea and strengthen awareness on the basics of integrated pest management and good agricultural practices for tea, the food standards watchdog said. “It was supported by the Tea Board and Confederation of Indian Industry Food and Agriculture Centre of Excellence,” it said.
There have been reports in the past when both international and domestic buyers rejected consignments due to excessive presence of pesticides and chemicals. The food regulator has been working on a plan to rectify this and training tea growers is a part of it.
The training included information on maximum residue levels for pesticides and measures to keep the harmful chemical within that range.