It plans to initiate surveillance on other food products such as fortified rice and dairy products
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has ordered a nationwide comprehensive testing of spices from all brands. This decision was taken after Singapore and Hong Kong suspended the sale of certain spice blends from two leading brands, MDH and Everest, due to elevated levels of ethylene oxide (ETO), a pesticide that is unsuitable for human consumption and associated with long-term cancer risks.
The FSSAI has also instructed state governments to conduct spice testing to ensure quality. Additionally, it plans to initiate surveillance on other food products such as fortified rice and dairy products.
In a related development, India’s Spices Board has made it mandatory for all spices exported to Hong Kong and Singapore to undergo ETO testing, effective May 6. The Board stated that all Spice consignments, including ready-to-eat (RTE) products, destined for Singapore and Hong Kong must be accompanied by a cleared analytical report for ETO issued by the Spices Board.
Despite India setting standards for 30 spices, countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, and the US maintain stricter regulations.