The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is planning to take action against popular spice brands like MDH and Everest. This decision has been made after the Rajasthan government found some of their products as “unsafe” for consumption. The move is part of a broader effort to address growing concerns about spice contamination around the globe.
The issue began when Shubhra Singh, the Additional Chief Secretary for Health in Rajasthan, sent a letter to the FSSAI. This letter, which was reported by Reuters, pointed out results from tests carried out by Rajasthan’s food safety department. According to these tests, a batch of Everest spice mix and two batches of MDH spices did not meet the safety standards.
This isn’t the first time these brands have come under inspection. In April, Hong Kong banned the sale of certain MDH and Everest spice mix. The reason was high levels of ethylene oxide, a pesticide which is a cancer causing agent was present in them. This raised alarms not just in India but also in countries like Singapore, New Zealand, the United States, and Australia, prompting investigations by their food safety authorities.
The recent tests found several harmful chemicals in these spices. For MDH’s Garam Masala, the tests detected traces of Acetamiprid, Thiamethoxam, and Imidacloprid. In their Sabzi Masala and Chana Masala, the chemicals found included Tricyclazole and Profenofos. For Everest Spices’ Jeera Masala, the tests revealed Azoxystrobin and Thiamethoxam.
Other brands were also flagged. Shyam Spices’ Garam Masala contained Acetamiprid, Ciba Taaza’s Raita Masala had Acetamiprid and Thiamethoxam, and Gajanand Spices’ Achaar Masala was found to contain Ethion.
Spices play a significant part India’s economy. In 2023, India exported around $4.25 billion worth of spices, making up 12% of the global spice export market. This data is from the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI). Given this, ensuring the safety and quality of Indian spices is crucial not just for consumers’ health but also for maintaining India’s reputation in the global market.
The FSSAI’s upcoming actions against MDH and Everest are part of a larger effort to ensure food safety in India. By addressing these contamination issues, the FSSAI aims to protect consumers and maintain the trust in Indian spices worldwide.
The safety concerns raised by Rajasthan’s food safety department have sparked significant action from the FSSAI against major spice brands. With international incidents already damaging the reputation of Indian spices, this move is essential to restore confidence and ensure the safety of consumers both in India and globally.
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