Maharashtra has banned the sale of loose, unpackaged spice powders, splitting traders at Mumbai’s Lalbaug spice market.

Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe issued the order on October 15, requiring spices to be sealed where they are made.

It covers turmeric, chilli, coriander, cumin, pepper, cardamom, saffron, garam masala and other blended mixes.

The rule applies across the supply chain, from manufacturers and retailers to e-commerce sites, hotels and caterers.

Sealed packs must show ingredients, manufacturer details, FSSAI licence, batch number, packing date and best-before date.

Established traders back the ban, saying it will stop cheap adulterated powder from undercutting honest sellers.

Smaller grinders fear the cost of packaging, labelling and the national food licence now required to grind spices.

Artificial colours, sawdust, spent spices and ethylene oxide are banned, and drying spices on roads is prohibited.

Violations can bring seizures, licence cancellations, fines and possible prosecution under the Food Safety Act.

Read the full article for more details on the Maharashtra loose masala ban.