Mumbai: The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has banned the sale of loose spices to prevent adulteration. Tukaram Mundhe, the FDA commissioner, on Thursday said cancer-causing industrial dyes such as Sudan dye, Metanil Yellow and lead chromate were found in spice samples taken from sellers in the state.

"These are known carcinogens; action will also be taken against those who try to boost the volume of the spices by adding sawdust, artificial starch and other substances like powder derived from bricks," Mundhe said.

Mundhe said the use of artificial colours and chemicals in spices would not be permitted. Manufacturers found violating the directives would face prosecution and risk losing their manufacturing licences.

The FDA will also inspect the premises of the units where the manufacturing is supposed to take place, he warned, adding that the state will no longer allow spices to be dried on roads, near drains or any other unhygienic places. Even the storage of these spices will be regulated, Mundhe said.

Mundhe also said that action will be taken if it is found that artificial colours and chemicals are stored in the same place as the spices.

"There have been several instances where citizens' health has been endangered due to the use of artificial colours and dyes in spices. To ensure that citizens' health is not put at risk, we are today issuing a comprehensive compliance order," the FDA commissioner said.