The ongoing investigation underscores the importance of stringent food safety measures and the need for transparent communication from all stakeholders involved
The recent scrutiny faced by two renowned Indian spices companies, MDH and Everest Masala, by food regulators in Hong Kong and Singapore, has sparked concerns.
Allegations of the presence of ethylene oxide, a pesticide classified as a carcinogen, at levels exceeding permissible limits, have prompted investigations and bans on certain products. Despite the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) initiating investigations into samples of MDH and Everest spices following the ban, officials from both companies have yet to publicly address the accusations.
In response to these developments, the Crop Care Federation of India (CCFI) has issued a white paper outlining facts about ethylene oxide. Nirmala Pathrawal, Executive Director, CCFI emphasises the importance of both trade bodies and the implicated companies, MDH and Everest Masala, stepping forward to present their perspectives on the matter.
Earlier, on April 5, Hong Kong authorities detected ethylene oxide in three MDH products—Madras Curry Powder, Mixed Masala Powder, and Sambhar Masala—as well as Everest’s Fish Curry Masala. Subsequently, on April 19, Singapore mandated a recall of Everest’s Fish Curry Masala, citing similar concerns regarding ethylene oxide levels.
According to the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), ethylene oxide is not authorized for use in food and is solely employed for fumigating agricultural products to prevent microbial contamination. The Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong, in its report, confirmed the presence of ethylene oxide in the tested products, deeming them unsuitable for human consumption. Hong Kong regulations prohibit the sale of food containing pesticide residues exceeding safe limits.
MDH and Everest, prominent spice brands in India and abroad, have faced significant financial impact from these allegations. Reports indicate that both companies earned over Rs 2000 crore in the last fiscal year, with substantial exports to various countries, including the USA, Canada, UK, Europe, South East Asia, Japan, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
Despite their widespread consumption and market presence, questions linger as to why these products suddenly drew scrutiny from FSSAI and international regulators.
In response to the situation, Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety (CFS) advised the public to refrain from consuming the affected products and directed vendors to withdraw them from shelves. Similarly, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) ordered the recall of Everest’s fish curry masala imported into Singapore due to ethylene oxide concerns.
The ongoing investigation underscores the importance of stringent food safety measures and the need for transparent communication from all stakeholders involved.
Abhitash Singh