A Look at the New Rulebook
In mid-October 2026, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a draft notification proposing new Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for two key insecticides used in tea cultivation. The proposed limits are 20 milligrams per kilogram
(or parts per million) for Acetamiprid and 50 mg/kg for Imidacloprid. These substances are neonicotinoid-class insecticides commonly used to combat pests like the tea mosquito bug, aphids, and jassids. This move is part of the FSSAI's ongoing effort to create clear, science-based benchmarks for what is considered safe, bringing more regulatory clarity to the entire supply chain. The FSSAI has invited stakeholders to submit suggestions and objections before the draft is finalized.
Why the Change Was Necessary
The primary driver for these revised parameters is the need to harmonise domestic standards with global expectations while ensuring consumer safety. The Tea Board of India, in collaboration with research institutes, works to ensure that all plant protection formulations (PPFs) comply with national rules set by FSSAI and the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIB&RC), as well as international standards. This balancing act is crucial; inconsistent or unclear MRLs can lead to market rejection, especially in stringent markets like the European Union and Japan. By establishing clearly defined MRLs, the FSSAI aims to provide growers, processors, and exporters with a predictable framework, boosting confidence in the quality and safety of Indian tea.
Stricter Standards for a Safer Sip
Interestingly, India's proposed limits for Acetamiprid are stricter than those in some other major markets. The proposed 20 ppm limit is lower than Japan’s 30 ppm and the USA’s 50 ppm. The limit for Imidaclopropid was formulated with reference to the international Codex standards, which serve as a global benchmark for food safety. This reflects a strategic approach by Indian regulators to prioritise consumer health and align with internationally recognized best practices. This isn't happening in a vacuum; it follows earlier regulatory measures, including the delisting of 13 pesticides with higher toxicity, signalling a broader shift towards more sustainable and safer agricultural practices.
Impact on the Ground: Growers and Workers
For tea growers, the new rules bring both challenges and opportunities. Clearer standards reduce the risk of compliance issues and potential rejection of their produce in domestic and export markets. However, it also means they must adhere to responsible pesticide management, as outlined in the Tea Board's Plant Protection Code (PPC). This code promotes Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM), encouraging a gradual reduction in chemical reliance in favour of alternatives like biological control. The regulations also have a significant bearing on worker safety. The PPC includes detailed guidelines on the safe storage, transportation, and application of pesticides, as well as the proper use of protective gear for spraying squads to minimise exposure.
What This Means for Your Daily Chai
For the average consumer, these updated regulations are a welcome development. They are part of a larger effort to ensure the tea that reaches your cup is not only flavourful but also safe. The establishment of science-backed MRLs provides an extra layer of assurance against excessive pesticide residues. While growers manage the complexities of pest control to protect their yields, the FSSAI's role is to act as a guardian of public health. These defined limits give enforcement authorities and testing labs clear benchmarks for monitoring the tea sold across the country. Ultimately, the goal is to build and maintain trust in one of India's most iconic products, ensuring its sustainability for years to come.
