Food safety regulators around the world have launched investigations into two major Indian spice brands, MDH and Everest, over concerns that their products may be contaminated with cancer-causing pesticides. Singapore and Hong Kong have already suspended sales of spice blends from these brands due to high levels of ethylene oxide, a pesticide that is known to be a carcinogen in humans. The U.S. FDA, as well as regulators in New Zealand and Australia, are also looking into the alleged contamination. While ethylene oxide is banned in many countries, it is still permitted in low concentrations in the U.S. for sterilizing spices and reducing microbial contamination.
In response to the allegations, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India is investigating the quality standards of MDH and Everest. The Spices Board in India has also implemented mandatory testing for ethylene oxide in spice consignments bound for Singapore and Hong Kong, as well as increased monitoring of shipments to other countries. The specific products under scrutiny include Madras Curry Powder, Sambhar Masala, and Curry Powder from MDH, as well as Fish Curry Masala from Everest. Both companies have previously maintained that their products are safe for consumption.
India is the largest producer of spices in the world, exporting around $4 billion worth of spices annually and accounting for 12 percent of the global export market. MDH and Everest Food Products are among the largest spice blend manufacturers in the country and are trusted brands both domestically and internationally. Everest has previously been involved in food safety investigations, with shipments of Garam Masala and Sambhar Masala recalled in 2023 due to salmonella contamination. Similarly, MDH’s Sambar Masala was recalled in 2019 for the same reason, and a Reuters analysis of FDA data found that 14.5 percent of MDH spice shipments to the U.S. since 2021 were rejected due to salmonella contamination.
Overall, the situation has raised concerns about the safety of Indian spice blends and the potential health risks posed by pesticide contamination. Ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen, has been found in spice products from MDH and Everest, prompting investigations and suspensions of sales in several countries. The actions taken by food safety regulators highlight the importance of rigorous testing and monitoring throughout the food supply chain to ensure the safety of consumers. As investigations continue, consumers and regulators alike are closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to address any potential risks associated with these popular spice brands.
