After bans were imposed on the sale of four spices from Indian spice companies MDH and Everest in Hong Kong and Singapore, the Indian government has ordered an inspection of the quality of these spices. Orders have also been issued to inspect spices from other companies sold in the country.

Indian spice companies Everest and MDH have been banned in Singapore. Orders have been given for the return of these spices from the market, along with warnings to consumers and sellers. After this ban, the Indian government has ordered an inspection of the quality of these spices. Orders have also been issued to inspect spices from other companies sold in the country.

What’s the Matter?

According to sources, after action was taken by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) against the spices of Indian companies in Singapore and Hong Kong, samples of all brands including MDH and Everest from across the country are being taken for inspection.

The source told the agency, “In view of the current situation, FSSAI is taking samples of all brands, including MDH and Everest, from the market to determine whether they meet FSSAI standards or not.”

They said that the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) does not regulate the quality of exported spices.

Why the Controversy?

Meanwhile, the Indian Spices Board is investigating the ban imposed by Hong Kong and Singapore on the sale of four mixed spice products from Indian brands MDH and Everest. Allegations have been made that these spices contain more than acceptable levels of the pesticide ‘ethylene oxide.’

What is ‘Ethylene Oxide’?

‘Ethylene oxide’ is a colorless chemical that has been used in some food products for some time. Its excessive quantity can be very harmful to the human body and can even cause dangerous diseases like cancer.

Hong Kong’s Food Safety Center (CFSA) has asked consumers not to purchase these products and traders not to sell them, while Singapore’s food agency has directed to take back such spices.

Bullet Points:

• Indian spice companies MDH and Everest faced bans on spice sales in Singapore and Hong Kong.
• The FSSAI initiated investigations into the quality of spices, including those from MDH and Everest.
• Inspection parameters include checking for harmful substances and adherence to permissible pesticide levels.
• Concerns were raised about elevated levels of the pesticide ‘ethylene oxide’ in some spice products.
• The Indian government and regulatory bodies are actively addressing the issue to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Consumers have been advised against purchasing banned spices, and traders are urged to recall them for safety reasons.