The seizure of over 50 trucks carrying arecanut from Karnataka by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Maharashtra has sparked alarm among growers and traders in region. The Federation of Karnataka State Cooperative Arecanut Societies warned that this action could halt areca trade entirely if not addressed promptly . Samples from the seized trucks have been sent for testing,raising concerns about the classification of the product .
Traders claim that the FDA misinterpreted the traditional use of chogaru, a natural coating applied during processing,as a chemical additive. They also argue that the FDA has incorrectly deemed mechanically dehusked areca as sub-standard. Araga Jnanendra, federation chairman and former minister,expressed serious concerns during a press conference on June 24 . He stated,“The entire areca trade may come to halt if this matter is not resolved.” Federation representatives have since reached out to Maharashtra’s Chief Minister,seeking the release of the seized trucks.
“We have appealed for the release of all seized trucks and are hopeful matter will be resolved soon,” Jnanendra added,assuring growers that the federation would advocate for their interests. “The growers need not worry. The federation will always stand with them,” he emphasized .
Areca is a vital commercial crop for many districts in Karnataka,including Shivamogga,Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada,Chikkamagaluru,and Davangere. In recent years,it has also gained traction among farmers in Chitradurga and Tumakuru. crop supports the livelihoods of countless families, making the current situation particularly concerning.
Trade experts speculate that the FDA's actions may be linked to ongoing quality issues. Previous consignments of areca from Karnataka have faced rejection due to quality concerns. After harvesting and dehusking,areca kernels undergo boiling, and natural precipitates are added before drying. The nuts are then graded into five categories—Nuli,Hasa, Rashi,Bette, and Gorablu—based on quality,with Nuli commanding the highest prices.
However, some processors may be using chemical additives to enhance color and appearance of the nuts, potentially leading to health risks. The FDA's scrutiny appears to be a response to these practices. The impact of the recent seizures has already been felt in Shivamogga,where areca prices have dropped significantly. Within days, prices fell by approximately ₹2,000 per quintal, with the Rashi variety trading at around ₹50,000 per quintal, down from ₹53,000.
If the situation remains unresolved,traders like Prashanth from the APMC market in Shivamogga fear that prices may not recover . The uncertainty surrounding trade continues to weigh heavily on the local economy and the livelihoods of many farmers .
