Everest Spices Masala: Understanding Ethylene Oxide, Found in Samples of MDH And Everest Spice Mixes

Singapore has banned popular Indian spice brands MDH Pvt. and Everest Food Products Pvt. due to reported findings of the carcinogenic pesticide ethylene oxide in several spice mixes. Hong Kong has followed suit in prohibiting the sale of these products.

Ethylene oxide, a chemical compound with the formula C2H4O, is a flammable, colorless gas with a sweet odor at room temperature. It is used as a sterilizing agent for medical equipment and a fumigating agent for spices. However, it is also a carcinogen, increasing the risk of lymphoid and breast cancer with prolonged exposure. Short-term effects of ethylene oxide include central nervous system depression and irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes, while long-term exposure can cause irritation of the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs, and damage to the brain and nervous system.

Specific products that have been withdrawn include MDH’s Madras Curry Powder, Sambhar Masala Powder, Curry Powder, and Everest’s Fish Curry Masala. The move has prompted India’s commerce ministry to direct its embassies in Singapore and Hong Kong to send a detailed report on the matter.