The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is examining products from two Indian spice manufacturers following claims that they contain a pesticide linked to cancer.
Earlier, Hong Kong halted sales of certain spice mixes from MDH and Everest due to suspected high levels of ethylene oxide, a chemical with potential health risks.
MDH and Everest are renowned for their spices both in India and globally.
While Everest has asserted the safety of its products, MDH has not responded to the allegations.
An FDA spokesperson informed Reuters that the agency is gathering more information about the situation.
Similarly, Singapore has recalled Everest’s fish curry mix due to concerns about ethylene oxide levels and associated cancer risks.
India’s Spices Board, responsible for regulating spice exports, is investigating the companies’ exports to Hong Kong and Singapore.
They are collaborating with the companies to determine the cause of these quality issues and have initiated inspections at their facilities.
Ethylene oxide, commonly used as a fumigating agent for spices, is considered carcinogenic by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The EPA’s 2018 statement noted an increased risk of lymphoid and breast cancers associated with ethylene oxide exposure.
In 2019, some MDH products were recalled in the US due to fears of salmonella contamination.
The media has reached out to MDH and Everest for their comments on the current situation.
Source-BBC
