In response to quality concerns raised by Singapore and Hong Kong, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated the collection of spice samples from various brands, including MDH and Everest, across the country. This measure aims to determine compliance with FSSAI quality standards. While the FSSAI does not regulate the quality of exported spices, it routinely collects samples of spices sold in the domestic market to ensure their quality.
Meanwhile, the Spices Board of India is investigating the ban imposed by Hong Kong and Singapore on the sale of four spice-mix products from MDH and Everest, allegedly containing excessive levels of the pesticide ‘ethylene oxide.’ The Director of the Spices Board of India, A.B. Rema Shree, confirmed that an investigation into the matter is underway.
The banned products include MDH’s Madras Curry Powder, Everest Fish Curry Masala, MDH Sambhar Masala Mixed Masala Powder, and MDH Curry Powder Mixed Masala Powder. The Hong Kong’s Center for Food Safety (CFS) has advised consumers against purchasing these products, while the Singapore Food Agency has ordered their recall.
