The Government of India has introduced stricter quality standards for fruits and vegetables with the notification of the Fruits and Vegetables Grading and Marking (Amendment) Rules, 2024. These amendments are aimed at ensuring food safety and enhancing the quality of produce both for domestic consumption and export.
The new rules mandate that all fruits and vegetables, whether for domestic or export markets, must adhere to stringent food safety requirements. This includes restrictions on residual levels of metal contaminants, pesticide residues, and microbial contamination. Additionally, the produce must meet the standards set by the Codex Alimentarius Commission or the importing countries for export.
The amendment also introduces specific quality standards for table grapes, outlining criteria for appearance, size, and sugar content. These measures are expected to improve the overall quality of grapes available in the market.
By ensuring adherence to international food safety standards, India aims to enhance its position as a reliable supplier of high-quality produce in the global market.
