EU Tightens Import Norms on Indian Guar Gum

The European Union has sought certification from an Indian government trade body and a laboratory on guar gum to eliminate toxin contamination.

 In July and
August last year, 16 of EU's 27 member states had toxin-related
recalls of food products containing Indian guar gum, used as an
additive in foods ranging from yoghurt and soft cheese to bread.
India accounts for 80 percent of global guar gum exports. Food grade
guar gum accounted for about 30 percent of a total Indian export of
200,000 tonnes.

In the future for guar gum exports EU
requirse an endorsement from Shellac & Forest Products Export
Promotion Council (SHEFEXIL), in addition to a toxin-free certificate
from Vimta Labs.

Shellac & Forest Products Export
Promotion Council is the government trade body that promotes guar gum
exports.

It has also sought a certification from
Hyderabad-based Vimta Specialities Lab from every exporter regarding
dioxin and pentachlorophenol (PCP) in guar gum. Vimta is the only EU
accredited lab in India.