India, Oct. 16 -- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the sale of loose spice powders across Maharashtra and mandated that powdered spices must be packed and sealed at the premises where they are produced to prevent contamination and ensure traceability.

A compliance order to this effect was issued on Thursday, covering manufacturers, traders, wholesalers, retailers, e-commerce outlets, hotels, caterers and institutional kitchens that produce and sell commonly used powdered spices such as turmeric, chilli, coriander, cumin, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, asafoetida, saffron, garam masala and curry leaves.

According to the order, only entities which have valid a license/registration will be allowed to deal with s...