The Aryavarth Express
Agency (Hyderabad): New Zealand Food Safety is currently investigating potential contamination issues in spices produced by prominent Indian brands MDH and Everest. This probe follows similar actions by other countries, including the United States, Australia, and Singapore, after findings of hazardous pesticide levels in these products led to recalls and sales suspensions.
The concern centers around ethylene oxide, a pesticide linked to cancer, which has been detected in high levels in several MDH and Everest spice blends. This chemical, used for sterilizing food, has been phased out in many countries due to its health risks.
Recent actions include Hong Kong’s suspension of sales for three MDH spice blends and one from Everest last month. Singapore also mandated a recall of an Everest spice mix due to the same issue.
MDH and Everest, well-known brands in India with a significant international presence, have asserted that their products are safe for consumption. However, regulatory scrutiny has intensified. Indian authorities have conducted inspections and sampled products from MDH and Everest’s facilities for testing, though the outcomes of these tests are still pending.
In addition to the current pesticide concerns, MDH has faced issues in the United States since 2021, with approximately 14.5% of its shipments being rejected by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration due to the presence of salmonella bacteria.