Last month, the FSSAI started taking samples of spices in powder form of all brands, including MDH and Everest, in view of quality concerns flagged by Hong Kong and Singapore.
Hong Kong’s food regulator Centre for Food Safety had identified that four products from spice brands MDH and Everest contained the pesticide ethylene oxide which is a carcinogen.
A pan India drive was initiated on 22 April through all the commissioners of food safety of states and Union Territories and regional directors of FSSAI.
Ethylene oxide is a colourless and flammable gas that is commonly used as a pesticide, sterilant, and fumigant in agriculture, healthcare, and food processing.
In the context of food products, ethylene oxide is sometimes utilised as a fumigant to control microbial contamination and pests in spices and other dry food items.
Prolonged exposure to ethylene oxide has been linked to adverse health effects, including respiratory issues, skin irritation, and increased cancer risk.
Due to its potential health risks, many countries have established strict regulations governing the use of ethylene oxide in food products, setting maximum limits to ensure safety.