New Delhi:
Everest Spices is currently facing several controversies. At the same time, a government official mentioned that they have tested samples of Everest spices.
The investigation found that the ethylene oxide levels in the spices did not meet the strict standards. They have been advised to improve it.
The government conducted the test following product recalls from two Indian spice brands, MDH and Everest, in Singapore and Hong Kong due to the presence of ethylene oxide (ETO).
Everest did not respond to the mail
The official mentioned that samples were collected from both companies and sent for testing.
MDH spices met all 18 standards. Some of the Everest samples (out of 12) did not meet the requirements. We have requested the company to take corrective measures.
We aim to ensure their compliance with the instructions. However, we have not received a response to the email sent to Everest yet.
Different countries have varying Maximum Residue Limits (MRL) for ethylene oxide (EtO).
For instance, the EU has set its limit between 0.02 to 0.1 mg per kg, Singapore’s limit is 50 mg, and Japan’s limit is 0.01 mg per kg.
The government tested the samples based on the 0.1 mg per kg standard.
The government held industry-wide discussions
The official mentioned that Maximum Residue Limits (MRL) requirements are changing over time, and the spice industry is aware of this. There have been three industry-wide discussions about it.
The industry is also exploring the use of bricks and alternative technologies, which exporters are using and are under investigation.
MDH-Everest spices banned in two countries:
The MDH and Everest spices issue has expanded to Australia and New Zealand from Hong Kong and Singapore.
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) recently announced an investigation into allegations of spice adulteration by Indian companies MDH and Everest.
Similar to Hong Kong and Singapore, these products might also face recalls in the Australian market.
Hong Kong has recently prohibited the sale of three MDH spices and Everest’s fish curry spices.
Singapore recalled Everest spice from the market due to excessive levels of ethylene oxide, a chemical that can cause cancer with prolonged exposure.
