In a first FSSAI notifies standards for basmati rice; rules to be in effect from 1 August 2023

In a first, Indian food regulator has notified regulatory standards for basmati rice to check proliferation of adulterated rice. The new rules will set standards related to average size, moisture and uric acid content and state of basmati rice after cooking.

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) came out with new regulations amid growing complaints about adulteration in basmati rice. In order to increase their profits, traders have been found to mix sub-standard rice with basmati. Many have indulged in polishing, using chemicals to enhance the look and smell of basmati rice.   

The word ‘Basmati’ has been derived from ‘Bas’ meaning small and ‘mati’ meaning variety.

In order to protect India’s global stature as number one basmati rice exporter, the FSSAI has brought these regulations. The country has done record exports this year. India’s annual export of basmati rice is worth Rs 30,000 crore.

What rules prescribe?

1) It will be mandatory for exporters to retain its fragrance.

2) Use of all kinds of artificial colours, polish and fragrances are strictly prohibited.

3) The rules will apply to all basmati rice whether sold in India or exported.

4) The rules will apply to brown basmati, mill basmati (par boiled) or half boiled basmati.

India has enjoyed the number position because of the quality of rice that it exports in comparison to its peers. Indian basmati is exported to USA, Iran, Yemen and many other nations.

Apart from India, other major basmati rice exporting countries are Thailand, Pakistan, China, USA and Burma. India has cornered over two-third of the basmati market in the world.  The exports increased to 126 lakh ton this time. The second spot has been occupied by Pakistan followed by Vietnam. The combined exports from these two nations accounts for just half of what is exported by India.

Basmati rice is grown in states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Delhi and Western Uttar Pradesh. The climate in these regions make Indian basmati what it is!

India Vs Pakistan

Both neighbours are rivals in this area too. India has applied for a GI tag in the European Union. While Pakistan also claims basmati as its own and has applied for the GI tag.