Britain’s food watchdog has taken a significant step in tightening scrutiny of all spice imports from India, following contamination allegations against two popular brands. The Food Standards Agency in the UK announced on Wednesday that they have implemented extra control measures on all Indian spice imports, making them the first to ramp up scrutiny in response to concerns raised by global food regulators.
The controversy began when Hong Kong suspended sales of three spice blends from MDH and one from Everest, citing high levels of a cancer-causing pesticide called ethylene oxide. Singapore also ordered a recall of the Everest mix, prompting other countries like New Zealand, the United States, India, and Australia to investigate the issue further.
Despite the allegations, both MDH and Everest have maintained that their products are safe for consumption. However, the UK’s Food Standards Agency is not taking any chances and has decided to apply extra control measures for pesticide residues in spices from India, specifically targeting ethylene oxide.
James Cooper, Deputy Director of Food Policy at the FSA, emphasized that the use of ethylene oxide is not permitted in the UK, and strict maximum residue levels are in place for herbs and spices. The agency did not disclose the exact steps they are taking but assured consumers that they will swiftly take action if any unsafe food is found on the market.
India, being the largest exporter, consumer, and producer of spices globally, has a significant stake in this issue. In 2022, Britain imported $128 million worth of spices, with India accounting for nearly $23 million of that total. MDH and Everest, the two brands under scrutiny, export their products to various regions worldwide, including the U.S., Europe, South East Asia, the Middle East, and Australia.
The Spices Board of India, responsible for regulating exports, has yet to comment on the situation. The UK’s move to tighten scrutiny on Indian spice imports underscores the importance of food safety regulations in the global market and highlights the need for stringent measures to protect consumers from potential harm.