The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched an investigation to determine the actual composition of blends from two Indian spice manufacturers that allegedly contain high levels of carcinogenic pesticides. Earlier this month, Hong Kong suspended (and banned) MDH's three spice mixes (Madras Curry Powder, Sambar Masala Powder, Curry Powder) and Everest Spice Blend Fish Curry Masala due to the presence of dangerous amounts of ethylene oxide. did. .
Reuters reported that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has investigated allegations of contamination that pose a health threat. On Friday, a spokesperson added that the FDA is aware of the report and is “gathering additional information regarding the situation.”
How did Indian spice manufacturing brands MDH and Everest react?
The media initially reported that both brands had not yet commented on the issue, but Everest finally claimed on Tuesday that its spices are safe for consumption. The Indian spice giant also formally responded that its products were exported “only after obtaining necessary clearances and approvals from the Institute of Spice Board of India.”
Meanwhile, MDH dismissed the allegations as “baseless, false and lacking substantive evidence.” “MDH has not received any communication from the regulatory authorities in Singapore or Hong Kong,” the MDH statement on Saturday added, reported by PTI. Further, to reassure customers, the Indian spice brand firmly stated, “We comply with national and international health and safety standards.”
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The Spices Board of India, a leading organization dealing with global promotion and export of spices, took up the matter and said it had requested data on MDH and Everest exports from authorities in Hong Kong and Singapore. India's spice export regulator also claimed it was working with both companies to narrow down the “root cause” of the alleged quality red flags. Inspections have begun at each factory to “ensure compliance with regulatory standards.”
The Spice Board added in a statement: “The board is in touch with the Indian missions in Singapore and Hong Kong for further information.”
History of the Indian Spice Controversy in the United States
MDH, a leading Indian food brand, came under fire in 2019 when some of its sambhar powder was removed from shelves due to salmonella contamination.
“House of Spice (India) is recalling different lots of MDH SAMBAR MASALA, 3.5 oz (100 g) UPC code 6291103750327,” the FDA's September 11, 2019 statement reads. This product is manufactured by R-PURE AGRO SPECIALTIES and distributed by HOUSE. Spices (India). This product has tested positive for Salmonella by the FDA through an accredited laboratory. ”
The recalled lot of MDH Sambal powder was distributed at retail stores in Northern California. The FDA warned against consuming salmonella because it can cause bacterial food poisoning, including salmonellosis. Common symptoms were “diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever within 12 to 72 hours of eating the contaminated product.”
