Codex MRLs for Spices

The JMPR in 2004 reviewed the available monitoring data submitted by governments and the International Organization of Spice Trade Associations (lOSTA) and proposed MRLs for spices using statistical methods and the following basic principles [7]  

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Numerous trade disruptions have occurred over the past years as a result of the lack of national and Codex MRLs for spices. Dried chili peppers have suffered the most detentions. In India alone, from 1999 to 2001, the reported losses in revenues ranged from 4.4 to 6.1 million USD [4]. Notifications in the EU Food Alert System often show rejection of consignments of spices from Asia due to residues of pesticides. Considering the main producers are small farm holders in developing countries that rely mainly on trade in spices for subsistence, the importance of establishing residue limits for pesticides used on spices was brought to the attention of the CCPR in 2000. 

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