Guwahati: The Indian Tea Association (ITA) has refuted allegations of using artificial colours in some packaged teas after media reports about the issue.

ITA informed that tea producers follow stringent standards set by certifying agencies to ensure that the teas are ethically produced and safe for human consumption, both domestically and overseas.

ITA strongly feels that such reports lead to destabilising the market with an overarching adverse impact on prices and keeping them depressed. While the producers spare no efforts to ensure that the produce is ethical, sustainable, and safe for consumption, the regulatory authorities such as the FSSAI and Tea Board are also equally vigilant.

They warned that any possible act by unscrupulous elements in the trade should not be cast upon the entire industry to defame it.

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