Introduction
In the fast-moving world of Indian food exports, non-compliance isn’t just a mistake it’s a costly disaster. Whether it’s due to incorrect labeling, pesticide residues, missing certifications, or poor packaging, rejected consignments can cause massive financial losses, harm brand reputation, and even result in permanent market bans.
In this blog, we’ll explore real-world export rejection cases, what caused them, and what Indian exporters like Manjulam Impex do to avoid these costly pitfalls.
EU Rejects Pickle Shipment – Excessive Preservatives
A major Indian brand had its entire consignment of pickles rejected at Rotterdam port.
Reason?
The product exceeded EU limits on sorbic acid (a preservative).
The ingredient label did not mention the preservative properly.
No Certificate of Analysis (COA) was provided to customs authorities.
Result: The shipment was destroyed, causing over ₹20 lakhs in losses and a 3-year ban from the EU for that exporter.
Organic Ghee Blocked in USA – Mislabeling
An organic ghee exporter from India shipped to a wellness store chain in the USA.
What went wrong?
The product was labeled as “USDA Organic” but lacked official certification.
The label also made unverified health claims (e.g., “cures heart disease”).
Packaging did not meet FDA nutrition facts format.
Outcome: The consignment was seized, leading to store penalties and loss of future contracts.
Dry Fruit Exports Halted in UAE – Insect Infestation
A batch of almonds from India was stopped at Jebel Ali Port.
Issue?
No fumigation certificate was attached.
Shipment had visible insect damage and mold due to poor packaging during monsoon.
Importer filed a formal complaint with local authorities.
Impact: Exporter faced blacklisting from the UAE supermarket group and a ₹5 lakh logistics loss.
Mustard Oil Denied Entry in Canada – High Erucic Acid
A Canadian importer flagged a mustard oil batch due to health concerns.
Problem:
The erucic acid level in the mustard oil was above Canadian safety limits.
The exporter failed to provide a fatty acid profile or testing certificate.
Consequence: Customs returned the batch, and the buyer switched to a competitor.
Missing Documentation – Delayed Clearance in Germany
An Indian spice exporter forgot to send:
Invoice & packing list in German
Certificate of Origin
Health Certificate
What happened?
The customs clearance was delayed by 12 days, leading to storage charges, demurrage, and spoilage of some products.
Total damage: Over ₹6 lakhs in penalties and lost sales.
Conclusion
The global food trade is stricter than ever. One small oversight can cost you millions and break long-term trade relationships. Exporters must stay updated, be proactive, and work with trusted partners like Manjulam Impex to ensure full compliance.
When quality, safety, and documentation are handled right you don’t just avoid losses you build a future-ready export business.