“Indian Authorities Request Information from Singapore, Hong Kong Regarding MDH and Everest Spice Ban”
Following the ban imposed by Hong Kong and Singapore on the sale of MDH and Everest spice brands due to quality concerns, India has initiated efforts to gather comprehensive information from the respective food safety regulators. This development underscores the significance of addressing international quality standards and ensuring consumer safety in the spice industry.
Following the ban imposed by Hong Kong and Singapore on the sale of MDH and Everest spice brands due to quality concerns, India has initiated efforts to gather comprehensive information from the respective food safety regulators. This development underscores the significance of addressing international quality standards and ensuring consumer safety in the spice industry.
Hong Kong and Singapore recently banned the sale of MDH and Everest spices after detecting the presence of the carcinogenic pesticide ethylene oxide in certain spice mixes. This move has prompted the Union commerce ministry to direct Indian embassies in both countries to provide detailed reports, including technical data, analytical findings, and information about rejected consignments.
The Indian authorities are focused on determining the root cause of the ban and implementing corrective actions in collaboration with concerned exporters. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has already initiated quality checks on MDH and Everest products following allegations of pesticide contamination.
Ethylene oxide is deemed unfit for human consumption due to its carcinogenic properties, prompting heightened scrutiny by food safety agencies. The Centre For Food Safety in Hong Kong detected this harmful pesticide in specific spice mixes, leading to the ban and subsequent investigations.
The Spices Board of India is actively engaged in assessing the ban and its implications, reflecting the industry’s commitment to upholding quality standards and addressing regulatory challenges.
The ban on MDH and Everest spices in Hong Kong and Singapore underscores the importance of stringent quality control measures in the food industry. India’s proactive approach in seeking details and addressing concerns reflects a commitment to ensuring consumer safety and maintaining global standards in spice production and export.
Sources By Agencies
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