Popular Indian spice brand MDH is under scrutiny for alleged contamination in some products, with an average of 14.5% of its U.S. shipments rejected due to the presence of bacteria since 2021, according to a Reuters analysis of U.S. regulatory data.
Hong Kong recently suspended sales of three spice blends made by MDH and Everest for containing high levels of a cancer-causing pesticide. Ethylene oxide, the pesticide in question, is unfit for human consumption and poses a cancer risk with prolonged exposure.
Both MDH and Everest have defended the safety of their products, stating that they do not use ethylene oxide in any stage of storing, processing, or packing spices. Authorities in the United States, Australia, and India are investigating the matter.
India, the world’s largest spice producer, consumer, and exporter, has a thriving spice market worth billions of dollars. MDH, a family-run company with a century-old legacy, has faced previous rejections in the U.S. due to salmonella contamination.
While MDH has seen a higher rejection rate for its shipments in recent years, Everest has had fewer rejections, with only one shipment rejected for salmonella in the ongoing fiscal year. Both companies maintain that their products are safe.
The U.S. FDA and the Spices Board are conducting inspections to ensure compliance with quality standards. MDH and Everest, long-standing players in the Indian spice industry, have faced previous recalls and rejections in the U.S. over contamination issues.
Consumers are advised to stay informed and cautious when purchasing spices from these brands, as the investigation into the safety of their products continues.