Requirements for domestic and export trade of millets laid down vide Millets Grading and Marking Rules, 2024

On 5-8-2024, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare notified the Millets Grading and Marking Rules, 2024 to regulate the quality of millets. The provisions came into force on 5-8-2024.

Key Points:

1. The Rules will only apply to the whole or dehulled millet which can be directly consumed by humans, namely- Sorghum, Pearl millet, Finger millet, Foxtail millet, Kodo millet, little millet, Brown top millet, Barnyard millet, Amaranthus seed and Buckwheat.

2. Grade Designation mark will consist of “Agmark Insignia”, which will also consist of the authorization number, name of commodity and a grade designation.

3. Schedule II to XII consists of the various grade designations to indicate the quality of millets.

4. Method of Packing-

   • The small pack sizes of the same batch and grade can be packed in a master container;

   • Each packet will contain millets of the same type and grade designation;

5. Method of Marking and Labeling-

   • Grade designation mark should be securely affixed or clearly & indelibly printed on every package;

   • The marking on all the packaging should be in accordance with the Food Safety and Standards (Labeling and Display) Regulations, 2020;

   • The following particulars should also be clearly printed on each package along with the grade designation mark:

     • name of the commodity;

     • certificate of 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 authorized packer (printed or scannable);

     • maximum retail price (inclusive of all taxes);

     • expiry or use by date;

     • storage condition, if any.

   • The quality of ink used should be such that the millets do not get contaminated;

6. For Domestic Trade: the safety requirements, such as restrictions in regard to residual levels of metal contaminants, pesticide residues, microbial requirements, crop contaminants, naturally occurring toxic substances and other requirements as specified under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 should be complied with.

7. For Export Trade: it has to comply with the residual limits of heavy metals, pesticides and other food safety requirements as laid down by the Codex Alimentarius Commission or importing countries requirement for export.