Under Implementing Regulation ( EU) No 2024/3153 of December 19, 2024, the European Commission has decided to increase the frequency of controls on dried oregano and cumin seeds imported from third world countries. The new regulation increases the proportion of official controls on the entry of these products into the EU from 20% to 30%. It will enter into force on January 8, 2025 and will be rigorously implemented by member states.
Reason for the increase in inspection frequency
The EU’s decision to tighten controls on oregano and cumin was taken in the context of combating food safety, pesticide residues, microbiological risks and other potential hazards. The risk of contamination, which is frequently encountered especially in imported spices, is of great importance in terms of ensuring food safety standards, protecting consumer health and placing products in compliance with EU legislation on the market.
In this context, 30 percent of batches of oregano and cumin sent to EU countries will be subjected to comprehensive analysis at entry points. These inspections include laboratory tests to detect the presence of chemical residues, heavy metals, mycotoxins and other harmful substances.
What Does the New Implementation Mean for Exporters?
Increased inspection rates mean stricter quality controls and compliance with regulations for producers and exporters of oregano and cumin to the EU. In particular, Turkey, India, Egypt and other producing countries will have to undergo more detailed inspection processes before sending their products to the EU.
Exporters are advised to take the following steps to comply with the new regulation
- Strengthen food safety and quality management systems
- To ensure that products are produced in accordance with EU legislation
- Minimize contamination risks before export by increasing laboratory testing
- Updating certification processes and ensuring full compliance with import procedures
In particular, the sensitivity of producers regarding the use of pesticides and agrochemicals will minimize the problems that may arise during the entry of products into the EU.
Impacts and Expectations in the Sector
This new regulation is expected to bring additional costs and operational challenges for companies exporting oregano and cumin to the EU. However, it will also contribute to ensuring reliability in the EU market by increasing food safety standards.
In particular, firms with international certifications are expected to manage this process more easily. Companies investing in food safety management systems (ISO 22000, BRCGS, FSSC 22000, etc.) and pesticide analysis will be able to maintain their competitive advantage in the EU market.
Conclusion
The European Union’s decision to increase inspection rates on oregano and cumin imports is an important regulation, especially for producer and exporter countries. Effective January 8, 2025, the new regulation requires both producers and exporters to comply with higher food safety standards.
