The Tea Board of India has directed tea producers and merchandisers not to add extra colour to any form of tea made in India and sold in domestic or international markets.
Rishikesh Rai, Secretary Tea Board, said in the early September directive that according to the Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations of 2011, tea should be free from any extraneous matter, added colours and harmful substances. The Tea Marketing Control Order (TMCO) of 2003 also states that the tea should conform to FSSAI specifications.
According to a source in the Tea Board, the Tea Board had come across instances in recent past where artificial colours are mixed with tea, instant tea and iced tea. As Indian teas from different places of the country have their own distinct quality and aroma, these have strong demand in international markets. Any addition of colour could affect the brand image of Indian teas and cause health hazards for tea drinkers, the source said. That is why tea producers, packers and sellers have been asked to not mix artificial/ synthetic colour in tea, the source added.
In the directive, the board has also said any violation of guidelines could lead to suspension or cancellation of licenses issued to those who sell the brew in domestic and international markets.
Tea industry stakeholders have welcomed the initiative.
The Tea Board of India has directed tea producers and merchandisers not to add extra colour to any form of tea made in India and sold in domestic or international markets.
Rishikesh Rai, Secretary Tea Board, said in the early September directive that according to the Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations of 2011, tea should be free from any extraneous matter, added colours and harmful substances.The Tea Marketing Control Order (TMCO) of 2003 also states that the tea should conform to FSSAI specifications.
According to a source in the Tea Board, the Tea Board had come across instances in recent past where artificial colours are mixed with tea, instant tea and iced tea. As Indian teas from different places of the country have their own distinct quality and aroma, these have strong demand in international markets. Any addition of colour could affect the brand image of Indian teas and cause health hazards for tea drinkers, the source said. That is why tea producers, packers and sellers have been asked to not mix artificial/ synthetic colour in tea, the source added.
In the directive, the board has also said any violation of guidelines could lead to suspension or cancellation of licenses issued to those who sell the brew in domestic and international markets.
Tea industry stakeholders have welcomed the initiative.
