The Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong has taken action against certain Indian spice products, banning several variants from popular brands MDH and Everest.
This move follows the detection of ethylene oxide, a known carcinogenic pesticide, in these spice formulations. The CFS specifically listed MDH's Madras Curry Powder, Sambhar Masala Mixed Masala Powder, Curry Powder Mixed Masala Powder, and Everest's Fish Curry Masala as banned items in an announcement on April 5.
Ethylene oxide, classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, was found in samples collected from stores in Tsim Sha Tsui during routine testing conducted by the CFS. Subsequently, the affected stores were instructed to remove these products from their shelves, and distributors and importers have initiated product recalls.
The gravity of the situation is underscored by the potential consequences outlined in food safety legislation: any food items found to contain pesticide residues must be safe for consumption. Violators of this regulation may face fines up to $50,000 and imprisonment for a period of six months, as per the CFS.
In a parallel development, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has also taken action, recalling Everest Fish Curry Masala due to elevated levels of ethylene oxide exceeding permissible limits. While ethylene oxide is permitted for use in spice sterilization under Singapore's Food Regulations, its presence in quantities exceeding safety thresholds in food products is cause for concern, as emphasized by the SFA in a media release.
Consumers are strongly advised against consuming the implicated products and urged to seek medical advice if they have consumed them and harbor health concerns. These coordinated efforts by food safety authorities in Hong Kong and Singapore highlight the importance of stringent regulations and proactive measures to safeguard public health in the face of potential hazards in food products.
