Govt Directs MDH, Everest To Take Corrective Measures Following Spice Recalls

The central government has directed prominent spice manufacturers MDH and Everest to implement "corrective measures" after their products were recalled in Singapore and Hong Kong for containing pesticide ethylene oxide (EtO) beyond permissible limits. In Hong Kong, the presence of EtO in food is strictly prohibited.

According to reports, to address the issue, the Spices Board of India is conducting comprehensive tests on each spice sample from the two companies and inspecting their production facilities. The goal is to ensure that the spices meet prescribed standards for production and export, according to two government officials. The companies have been asked to explain the reasons behind the recall.

The inspection focuses on whether the firms adhered to the maximum residue limit for EtO and scrutinises storage, transportation, and testing processes for exported spices. “We have carried out sample testing at both these companies’ premises. We are working with them and have asked them to take corrective action, which will be monitored by the Spices Board,” one official stated.

EtO is commonly used in the food industry as a fumigant to reduce bacterial load, yeast, and mould. However, tolerance levels for EtO vary by country. For example, the European Union permits a maximum residue limit of 0.02-0.1 mg per kg, whereas the United States and Canada allow up to 7 mg per kg. India currently has no set limit.

It has been discovered that the spices were intended for destinations where EtO use is permissible, but were mistakenly sent to Hong Kong. Government officials have held three rounds of consultations with the firms regarding EtO usage in food items, emphasising the need to comply with jurisdiction-specific requirements as standards evolve.

Additionally, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is conducting extensive sampling and testing. According to officials, in FY24, 99.8 per cent of approximately 1.4 million tonnes of exported spices met the quality standards of various countries, while 0.73 per cent of imported food consignments to India were non-compliant.

Earlier this month, the Spices Board mandated pre-shipment sampling and testing for EtO for exports to Singapore and Hong Kong for six months, with a review to follow. Guidelines were issued to all exporters to prevent EtO contamination throughout the supply chain, including sourcing, packaging, transportation, and testing. Periodic sampling by the Spices Board will continue to enforce corrective measures as needed.