Market for packaged tea down by 8.3 pc

The imposition of excise duty has shown a negative impact on the mass consumption of packaged tea and the reversal of the duty will definitely help ease the burden of the inflation thatthe common man is already reeling under.

In recent times, various consumer activist groups have highlighted their concern for a possibility of adulteration of loose tea. The Consumer Guidance Society of India CGSI situated out of Mumbai has conducted an analysis of 25 loose tea samples, out of which 80 per cent of the samples were found to be adulterated and did not fulfill the statutory provisions laid down by the Prevention of Food and Adulteration PFA Act. The danger of adulteration at any of the several lakh outlets that sell loose food products across the country is real and apparent. Packaged tea is consistent in quality, unadulterated and hygienic according to the TPAI. This further ensures the guaranteed weight of tea as it is governed by the Packed Commodity and Regulations Order PCRO, thus safeguarding the interests of the consumers.