Everest Group’s Masala Maker Under Investigation: Understanding Ethylene Oxide and Its Dangers

India’s Food Safety Regulator Steps Up Quality Checks Following Hong Kong’s Ban on Indian Spice Brands

In response to Hong Kong’s recent ban on certain products from popular Indian spice brands MDH and Everest Group due to alleged contamination with a cancer-causing pesticide, India’s food safety regulator is gearing up for quality checks. The ban has raised significant alarm, prompting officials to take swift action to ensure the safety of consumers.

A senior Indian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that inspections would be conducted to test for the presence of ethylene oxide, a harmful pesticide deemed unfit for human consumption. This move comes in the wake of mounting concerns over the potential health risks posed by contaminated spice products.

Suparna Mukherjee, Charge of Clinical Nutrition at Narayana Health City, Bangalore, expressed deep concern over the findings, highlighting the toxicity of ethylene oxide. She emphasized its classification as a top-level carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and underscored the heightened risk of cancer associated with prolonged exposure to ethylene oxide through contaminated food products.

Dr. Priyanshu Choudhary, Consultant Medical Oncology at Ivy Hospital Mohali, reiterated the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that ethylene oxide has been classified as a known human carcinogen by both the IARC and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). He highlighted the types of cancers most commonly associated with ethylene oxide exposure, including lymphoma, leukemia, and breast cancer.

The concerns raised by experts serve as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent food safety regulations to safeguard public health. As investigations unfold and regulatory measures are implemented, consumers are urged to exercise caution, particularly those in high-risk groups. It is imperative for authorities to take proactive steps to address the issue and ensure the integrity of the food supply chain to mitigate the risks posed by harmful contaminants and uphold the well-being of consumers.