The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recently mandated the testing and inspection of all spice manufacturers, expanding an inquiry into the industry following concerns raised by international regulators regarding potential contamination in two well-known spice brands, MDH and Everest.
Last month, Hong Kong took the decision to halt the sales of three spice blends produced by MDH from India, along with an Everest spice mix specifically used for fish curry. Similarly, Singapore issued a recall for the aforementioned Everest mix due to the detection of elevated levels of ethylene oxide. This chemical compound is deemed unsuitable for human consumption and poses a long-term cancer risk when exposed to it for extended periods.
MDH and Everest products are widely popular in India and are also distributed in Europe, Asia, and North America. The companies have assured consumers that their products are safe. However, both U.S. and Australian food authorities have announced that they are currently collecting additional information on the issue. In addition, India has already mandated testing of the products from these two brands.
The Indian regulatory authority has instructed officials to carry out thorough inspections, sampling, and testing at all manufacturing facilities producing powdered spices, particularly emphasizing those involved in the production of curry powders and mixed spice blends for both domestic and international markets.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India announced that each sampled product will undergo analysis to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards. They emphasized checking for the presence of ethylene oxide, a banned substance in India. Following testing, appropriate actions will be taken based on the results.
According to Zion Market Research, India holds the title of being the largest exporter, producer, and consumer of spices globally. In 2022, the domestic market for these aromatic products in India was estimated to be worth $10.44 billion.
In addition to MDH and Everest, prominent manufacturers in the industry consist of Madhusudan Masala, NHC Foods, as well as consumer behemoths Tata Consumer Products and ITC. No responses were provided by any of the mentioned companies when asked for comments. According to the Spices Board, India exported spice products valued at $4 billion in the fiscal year 2022-23.
The New Delhi-based think tank, Global Trade Research Initiative, warned in a report released on Wednesday that heightened global scrutiny may jeopardize over half of India’s spice exports. Should China follow suit with other nations in implementing such measures, there could be a significant decline in Indian spice exports.
