What Are the New Proposed Rules?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has put forward draft regulations to set Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for two specific pesticides commonly used in tea cultivation: Acetamiprid and Imidacloprid. The proposed MRL for Acetamiprid is
20 parts per million (ppm), and for Imidacloprid, it is 50 ppm. An MRL is the highest legally permissible concentration of a pesticide residue in a food product. These are not the amounts expected to be in the tea, but rather a legal ceiling to ensure safety. The proposal, published in the Gazette of India on October 16, 2026, is open for stakeholder feedback for 60 days before being finalised. Previously, the absence of a specific MRL for these approved pesticides created a grey area, often leading to a 'zero tolerance' standard of 0.01 ppm being enforced by default, which caused significant issues for growers.
Why Are These Norms Being Introduced?
The primary driver behind these proposed norms is twofold: protecting consumer health and aligning Indian tea with global standards. For domestic consumers who often drink multiple cups of tea daily, ensuring minimal exposure to chemical residues is a public health priority. Internationally, many countries that import Indian tea have their own stringent MRLs. By setting clear, science-based standards, the FSSAI aims to boost compliance, facilitate smoother trade, and enhance the reputation of Indian tea in a competitive global market. The proposed limit for Acetamiprid (20 ppm) is notably stricter than the limits in Japan (30 ppm) and the USA (50 ppm), indicating a move towards robust safety benchmarks. This initiative is part of a broader push by the FSSAI to scientifically review and update pesticide standards for various food products.
Relief and Concern in the Tea Gardens
The reaction from the tea industry has been mixed. For many, particularly small tea growers (STGs), the proposal brings a sense of relief and much-needed regulatory clarity. For years, STGs, who contribute over half of India's tea production, faced a crisis. Even though Acetamiprid and Imidacloprid were approved for use, the lack of a defined MRL meant that any detectable trace could lead to their green leaf batches being rejected by Bought Leaf Factories (BLFs). This created immense uncertainty and financial pressure. The new, clearly defined limits are expected to end this ambiguity. However, concerns remain. The industry will need to adapt its pesticide usage practices and supply chain controls to meet these new standards consistently. For small growers operating on thin margins, access to affordable testing infrastructure and guidance on approved, effective bio-alternatives will be critical to ensure they can comply without being penalised.
Striking a Delicate Balance
The proposed regulations highlight a classic dilemma: balancing public health with the economic realities of agriculture. Pesticides are crucial for farmers to control pests, prevent crop losses, and maintain productivity. The goal of the FSSAI is not to eliminate pesticide use but to ensure it is done responsibly and safely. The new MRLs are established through scientific assessments that consider residue data, dietary exposure, and overall safety. India's average pesticide use per hectare is already significantly lower than the global average, but targeted regulations for high-consumption products like tea are still vital. The success of these new norms will depend on how well they are implemented. It will require a collaborative effort involving regulators, scientists, large tea estates, and, most importantly, supporting the small growers who form the backbone of the industry.
