Hong Kong Follows Singapore in Banning Sale of MDH, Everest Spices

Recently, Indian spice brands have faced action abroad due to the alleged detection of the carcinogenic pesticide ethylene oxide in their products. In Singapore, Everest Food Products Pvt.

faced similar action after the presence of ethylene oxide at levels exceeding permissible limits was alleged. Additionally, in Hong Kong, the Centre For Food Safety announced the discovery of ethylene oxide in spice mixes from MDH Group, as well as in Everest Group’s Fish Curry Masala.

Ethylene oxide is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and poses serious health risks. These findings led to recalls of affected products in both Singapore and Hong Kong to protect public health.

The recall of Indian spice brands due to the presence of ethylene oxide is not an isolated incident. In 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had ordered a recall of Everest Food Products after they tested positive for Salmonella.

This situation demonstrates the importance of stringent quality control and adherence to safety regulations in the production and distribution of food products, to ensure the protection of public health and consumer trust.