Updated Millets Grading and Marking Rules, 2024 Define Trade Standards for Domestic and Export Purposes
On August 5, 2024, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare introduced the Millets Grading and Marking Rules, 2024, to ensure millet quality. These rules started on the same date. Here’s a simple breakdown:
What the Rules Cover:
The rules apply to whole or dehulled millets meant for human consumption. This includes Sorghum, Pearl Millet, Finger Millet, Foxtail Millet, Kodo Millet, Little Millet, Brown Top Millet, Barnyard Millet, Amaranthus Seed, and Buckwheat.
Grade Mark:
Each package will have an “Agmark Insignia” showing an authorization number, the name of the millet, and its grade. The grades are detailed in Schedules II to XII, which show the quality of the millets.
Packing Rules:
- Small packages of the same batch and grade can be packed together in a larger container.
- Each packet must contain millets of the same type and grade.
Marking and Labeling:
- The grade mark must be clearly and permanently printed or attached to every package.
- Packaging must follow the Food Safety and Standards (Labeling and Display) Regulations, 2020.
- Packages should also include:
- The name of the millet
- Authorization number
- Grade
- Variety or trade name (optional)
- Lot or batch number
- Date of manufacture or packaging
- Nutritional information
- Crop year (optional)
- Net quantity
- Name and address of the packer (printed or scannable)
- Maximum retail price (including taxes)
- Expiry or use-by date
- Any special storage conditions
Ink Quality:
The ink used for labeling should be safe and not contaminate the millets.
For Domestic Trade:
- The millets must meet safety standards for metal contaminants, pesticide residues, microbial contaminants, and other substances as per the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
For Export Trade:
- The millets must comply with limits on heavy metals, pesticides, and other safety standards set by the Codex Alimentarius Commission or the importing country’s regulations.
