Australia’s national food standards agency is currently investigating the potential contamination of spices produced by Indian brands Everest and MDH. The Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has stated that they are collaborating with international authorities to address this issue. The agency is working alongside federal, state, and territorial food enforcement bodies to determine the necessary steps, including a possible recall.
This investigation follows recalls issued by food safety agencies in Hong Kong and Singapore last month. Singapore has suspended the sale of an Everest fish curry mix, while Hong Kong has prohibited the sale of the same product along with three MDH spice blends. Traces of the pesticide ethylene oxide were found in samples from three retailers in Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui district, prompting action from the authorities.
Meanwhile, the Singapore Food Agency reported finding levels of ethylene oxide exceeding permissible limits in spices, indicating unauthorized use of the chemical in food. In the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also initiated an investigation into potential contamination in Everest and MDH’s spices in the country. The FDA is currently gathering information on the situation from various sources.
Both Everest and MDH are prominent Indian spice manufacturers with a global presence. MDH, headquartered in Delhi, released a statement refuting the contamination allegations and emphasizing their adherence to safety standards. The company denied receiving any communication from Singapore or Hong Kong regulatory bodies regarding the matter. Everest, based in Mumbai, has not responded to requests for comment at this time.
In a statement to Reuters, an FDA spokesperson acknowledged the reports and assured that the agency is actively monitoring the situation. Both brands produce a range of blended and ground spices sold worldwide, underscoring the importance of food safety standards in the industry. MDH reiterated its commitment to quality and denied the use of ethylene oxide in any stage of their spice production process.
