FSSAI’s clean chit to MDH and Everest

Last month, FSSAI initiated a nationwide sampling of powdered spices from all brands, including MDH and Everest

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has reported that no trace of carcinogenic ethylene oxide has been found in spice samples from major brands MDH and Everest, tested in 28 accredited laboratories. Results from six additional laboratories are still pending.

Last month, FSSAI initiated a nationwide sampling of powdered spices from all brands, including MDH and Everest, in response to quality concerns raised by Hong Kong and Singapore. Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety (CFS) has advised consumers against purchasing certain spice products from these brands due to the presence of carcinogenic ethylene oxide beyond permissible limits.

Ethylene Oxide, which is used as a fumigant in certain agricultural products, is considered unfit for human consumption and a cancer risk after long exposure. The affected products include MDH’s Madras Curry Powder, Everest Fish Curry Masala, MDH Sambhar Masala Mixed Masala Powder, and MDH Curry Powder Mixed Masala Powder.

A nationwide drive was launched on 22 April, involving state and Union Territory food safety commissioners and FSSAI regional directors. This initiative included thorough inspections of spice manufacturing units, along with sampling and testing of products intended for domestic sale and consumption. Samples from Everest were collected from two of its manufacturing facilities, while 25 samples from MDH were obtained from 11 of its facilities. Each sample was analyzed for various quality and safety parameters, including pesticide residues and ethylene oxide, at NABL-accredited laboratories notified by FSSAI.