MDH Masala: MDH denies presence of Ethylene Oxide in its spices, calls the claims “untrue

The CFS asked consumers not to buy and traders not to sell MDH’s Madras Curry Powder (spice blend for Madras curry), Everest Fish Curry Masala, MDH Sambhar Masala Mixed Masala Powder, and MDH Curry Powder Mixed Masala Powder. In reference to the alleged presence of ETO (ethylene oxide) in some of its products, MDH stated that “these claims are untrue and lack any substantiating evidence”. The company also asserted that they had not received any communication from regulatory authorities of Singapore or Hong Kong. MDH further stated that the Spice Board of India and food regulator FSSAI have not received any communication or test reports from Hong Kong or Singapore authorities regarding this matter.

The company emphasized that the allegations against them are baseless, unsubstantiated, and not backed by any concrete evidence. MDH reassured its buyers and customers about the safety and quality of all its products, affirming that they do not use Ethylene Oxide (ETO) at any stage of storing, processing, or packing their spices. The company also highlighted its commitment to abiding by health and safety standards, both domestically and internationally, as reflected in its tagline, ‘Asli Masale Sach Sach, MDH MDH’ and ‘Real Spices of India’. Following Hong Kong’s directive, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) also ordered a recall of imported ‘Everest Fish Curry Masala’.

India is the world’s largest producer, consumer, and exporter of spices, with exports worth nearly Rs 32,000 crore in 2022-23. Major spices exported include Chilli, cumin, spice oil and oleoresins, turmeric, curry powder, and cardamom. *(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed. )*