FSSAI to Test MDH and Everest Spices for Cancer-Causing Pesticide: 

Introduction

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has ordered urgent quality checks on popular spice brands MDH and Everest after Hong Kong banned the sale of these products for allegedly containing the carcinogenic pesticide ethylene oxide. This move follows alarming findings from Hong Kong's Centre for Food Safety, which detected the presence of this harmful pesticide in several spice mixes from both brands, raising concerns about the safety of these products.

Ethylene Oxide: The Cancer-Causing Pesticide

Ethylene oxide is a harmful pesticide classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a Group 1 carcinogen. Long-term exposure to this chemical has been linked to cancer. Under the Pesticide Residues in Food Regulation (Cap. 132CM) in Hong Kong, food containing such pesticide residues is deemed unfit for human consumption unless proven otherwise. Violation of this regulation can result in severe penalties, including a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.

Hong Kong’s Ban on MDH and Everest Spices

The controversy began when Hong Kong authorities tested samples of MDH’s Madras Curry Powder, Sambhar Masala Powder, and Curry Powder, as well as Everest’s Fish Curry Masala. These tests revealed the presence of ethylene oxide, leading Hong Kong's Centre for Food Safety to immediately ban the sale of these products. Vendors in the city of Tsim Sha Tsui were instructed to remove the contaminated spices from their shelves, reinforcing Hong Kong’s commitment to food safety.

FSSAI's Response

In light of these findings, the FSSAI, India’s food safety regulator, has ordered comprehensive tests on MDH and Everest spices to determine whether these products contain the harmful pesticide in the Indian market. According to a senior official cited by Reuters, the tests will assess the safety of these products to ensure that they do not pose a risk to Indian consumers.

Consumer Concerns and Regulatory Actions

MDH and Everest are trusted household names in India, known for their wide range of spice blends used in Indian cuisine. The allegations surrounding these brands have sparked concerns among consumers, who rely on these spices for daily cooking. FSSAI's actions will be closely watched as the agency works to protect public health and ensure that Indian food products meet stringent safety standards.

Conclusion

The FSSAI’s swift decision to test MDH and Everest spices highlights the importance of maintaining food safety standards in India. As authorities investigate these claims, consumers are urged to stay informed and cautious when purchasing food products. Ensuring the safety of everyday items like spices is crucial for protecting public health and upholding trust in the country's food supply.

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#FoodSafety #MDHSpices #EverestSpices #EthyleneOxide #CarcinogenicPesticide #FSSAI #ConsumerHealth #SpiceContamination #HongKongBan #IndianSpices