Question

Which of the following product require mandatory certification under AGMARK ?

• A. Fat spread
• B. Tamarind powder
• C. Wheat flour
• D. Tomato ketchup

Hint:

Almost all edible oils and fat-based products (like vanaspati or fat spreads) require mandatory AGMARK in India. This is to prevent the widespread issue of oil adulteration.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify a food product for which certification under the AGMARK (Agricultural Marking) scheme is legally mandatory in India. AGMARK is a quality certification mark provided by the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection (DMI).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• Nature of AGMARK: While AGMARK is generally a voluntary scheme for most agricultural commodities (like honey, ghee, or spices) to denote quality grades, the Government of India has made it mandatory for certain specific products under the Food Safety and Standards Regulations.

• Mandatory List: Products requiring mandatory AGMARK certification include:
- Fat Spreads and Blended Edible Vegetable Oils.
- Til Oil (Sesame oil).
- Carbia Callosa and Honey dew.
- Kangra Tea.

• Fat Spread (Option A): Because fat spreads are processed products that can easily be adulterated, the law requires them to bear the AGMARK seal to ensure the composition and quality of the fats used.

• Other Options: Tamarind powder, wheat flour, and tomato ketchup are generally regulated by FSSAI for safety, but AGMARK certification for them remains voluntary for grading purposes rather than a mandatory legal requirement for sale.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Fat spread is the product in the given list that requires mandatory AGMARK certification.