EU pesticide limits (MRLs) for spices from India
Bibhakar Spices, a Ghaziabad, India exporter, summarises how EU limits apply to Indian spices. Under Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 a default limit of 0.01 mg/kg applies where no specific limit is set, ethylene oxide is not accepted, and some Indian spices face tighter checks at the EU border. Confirm current limits before every order.
How EU residue limits work
The EU sets maximum residue levels (MRLs) for pesticides in food under Regulation (EC) No 396/2005. Each pesticide has its own limit for each product. Where no specific limit is set, the default is 0.01 mg/kg, which is very low. That is why a pesticide that is allowed at origin can still make a shipment non-compliant in the EU.
Limits differ by country, so never assume a limit accepted in India, the USA or another market applies in the EU. Your EU importer should check the current limit for your spice and your pesticide list.
Why ethylene oxide is the main concern
Ethylene oxide gas is used in some countries to reduce microbes on dried foods, but it is not allowed on food in the EU. The EU counts ethylene oxide together with its breakdown product 2-chloroethanol, expressed as ethylene oxide. CBI, the Dutch import promotion agency, advises exporters not to use it on spices bound for Europe and to avoid pallets treated with it.
Because limits are set at very low levels and can differ by product, ask for a laboratory report for your lot against the current EU limit.
Extra checks on some Indian spices
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1793 lists foods from certain countries that face a temporary increase in official controls. Some dried spices from India appear on its annexes, either with a higher share of consignments checked or with an official certificate of analysis results required for entry. The annexes are reviewed about every six months, so check the current version.
The Spices Board of India runs sampling and testing of spice export consignments for the EU, including an official certificate that covers ethylene oxide. Ask your supplier which certificate applies to your product code. For market requirements see CBI: entering the Dutch market for spices and herbs.
Six questions before you order
- Which pesticides are used, and are they approved for use on this crop in the EU?
- Is any fumigation or sterilisation treatment used, and which one?
- Can you share a laboratory report for the lot against current EU limits?
- Which official certificate will accompany the consignment?
- Are pallets and packing material free of ethylene oxide treatment?
- How are lot codes linked to the lab report?
Tell us your destination limits in writing before we ship. Our Quality Claims Policy explains how limits agreed in writing are handled.
Questions about EU limits for spices
Short answers for EU importers.
Buying spices for the EU?
Tell us your destination and limits. We quote FOB or CIF to Rotterdam, Hamburg or Antwerp.