FSSAI Directs States to Test Spice Samples After Ethylene Oxide Scare

New Delhi: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed states to gather samples of spices from all brands for quality testing.

This move follows concerns expressed by Singapore and Hong Kong authorities regarding certain Indian masalas, according to government sources. FSSAI aims to verify compliance with its standards by examining samples, including those from renowned brands like MDH and Everest, available in the domestic market.

However, it’s important to note that FSSAI does not regulate the quality of spices intended for export. The agency will focus solely on spices sold within India.

Government sources revealed that samples will be collected from all spice manufacturing units nationwide within three to four days, with lab reports expected in approximately 20 days.

Singapore and Hong Kong food regulators recently cautioned against four products from Indian brands, citing alleged levels of ethylene oxide surpassing permissible limits. Ethylene oxide is classified as a ‘Group 1 carcinogen’ by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

The Spices Board of India is actively investigating the bans imposed by these countries on MDH and Everest products.

While MDH has yet to issue a statement, Everest denied reports of its products being banned in Singapore and Hong Kong. A spokesperson clarified that Singapore’s food safety authority merely requested further inspection based on Hong Kong’s recall alert.