Wednesday, September 5, 2012

From medicine to poison, here’s how honey’s sweet image transformed

While the Export Inspection Council (EIC) has laid down stringent legislations and quality checks, the fully functional domestic bodies like The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India turn a blind eye. Mr. Singh further adds, “Prevention of Food Adulteration Act (PFA), Bureau of Indian Standards Act (BIS) also over-look the domestic market”.

As a consequence of the prejudice, export-reject stock gets introduced in the domestic market. This circle continues as we naively spread honey on our toast. The aftermath of the antibiotic fiasco has left the consumer with little choice. However, the silver lining has been that Hitkari, a seasonal brand, has avoided the malpractice. Mr. Nitin Malhotra, general manager, Hitkari Pharmacy, manufacturers of Hitkari Honey, beams, “It is due to the selective beekeepers we buy from”. Mr. Singh of Little Bee cites, “Apart from testing the raw honey regionally, parallel testing by outsourcing is the most favorable option to ensure quality standard.”

Rakesh Singh, a seasoned exporter confirms that organic honey is a more than suitable alternative. “It may cost more but delivers quality and assurance,” said Mr. Singh.

It is shocking to see only the exporters claiming a 100% guarantee of quality while the domestic suppliers prepare their case in defence. The domestic regulatory bodies of course, continue to sleep.


Source : IIPM Editorial, 2012.
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