2 raisin brands banned over exceeding pesticide content

Srinagar, Dec 31: The Food Safety Department on Wednesday issued prohibition orders banning the sale, storage, distribution, and display of certain packed raisin products due to unsafe levels of pesticide residues.

On December 30, 2025, Designated Officer and Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety, Srinagar, Yameen Ul Nabi, issued orders prohibiting two specific batches of raisins after samples tested positive for excessive pesticides at the National Food Testing Laboratory in Ghaziabad. In one order, Winsome Foods (also referred to as Winsome Foods Rainawari Srinagar) under the brand name “Raisins Packed,” has been barred. The prohibition follows the test report No. JK-691/Dec/25/81 dated December 15, 2025. As per the order, the pesticide sum of Benomyl and Carbendazim (expressed as Carbendazim) is above the prescribed limits.

Another order has prohibited raisins packed by M/s Hafsa Dry Fruits and Spices. under the brand name “Hafsa”. The same pesticide issue has been reported in this brand as well. Benomyl and Carbendazim exceeding permissible limits have been reported in both brands.

Food business operators, wholesalers, and retailers have been directed to immediately cease handling the affected products and submit stock positions to the department.