FSSAI to conduct a broader quality check on spices brands amid MDH, Everest scrutiny: Sources
Amid reports that Singapore and Hong Kong have banned the sale of MDH and Everest spices due to the presence of ethylene oxide, sources told CNBC-TV18 that the Indian food regulator FSSAI has ordered a detailed probe not only against MDH and Everest but against all brands selling spices in India.
FSSAI has ordered a probe against all brands selling products under spice categories. The probe will be based on random picking up of samples and then testing of samples for quality checks of products sold. Checks will be to assess whether the products sold under spices categories are as per the Indian quality and standards set by FSSAI or not, the sources said.
The action follows after Hong Kong’s food regulator discovered that three products sold by MDH — Madras Curry Powder, Sambhar Masala, and Curry Powder — as well as Fish Curry Masala sold by the popular brand Everest, were found to contain the pesticide ethylene oxide, classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, ethylene oxide poses serious health risks, including an increased risk of breast cancer.
The use of Ethylene Oxide is banned in food products in India and if testing finds any product contaminated with ethylene Oxide then appropriate action as per FSSAI rules will be taken against the companies/brands, the sources added.
The use of Ethylene Oxide is banned in food products in India and if testing finds any product contaminated with ethylene Oxide then appropriate action as per FSSAI rules will be taken against the companies/brands, the sources added.
Regarding the quality of products exported to Hong Kong and Singapore, which have been banned, sources clarified, Exports are not within the jurisdiction of FSSAI. The importing country typically tests the products at the point of import. It is the responsibility of the importing country to conduct quality checks according to their own standards before permitting imports.
The final outcome of the testing and investigation conducted by FSSAI remains to be seen.
