Banned by Hong Kong and Singapore, two major spice brands under scrutiny in India

Indian spice brands have recently come under scrutiny in Hong Kong and Singapore due to quality issues. MDH and Everest, two well-known Indian spice brands, have faced issues abroad. Hong Kong and Singapore banned their spices due to “quality concerns.” The health authorities in these countries found problems with the spices, leading to their ban. Specifically, the US Customs rejected 31% of MDH products over the past six months due to salmonella contamination. The situation has put spice manufacturing companies in a difficult spot, as authorities have raised concerns about rejected shipments and ordered recalls of some products. In response to the bans, the Spices Board of India is now ready to begin mandatory testing for spice consignments destined for Hong Kong and Singapore. The concern revolves around ethylene oxide (ETO), a cancer-causing pesticide found in some Indian spice mixes. The recall of MDH and Everest products in these countries has raised alarm among consumers in India as well234. MDH has denied using carcinogenic ingredients after the bans. However, the controversy highlights the need for rigorous quality control and testing in the spice industry. It has become essential for spice manufacturers to address these concerns and ensure the safety and quality of their products.  However,  Everest, a masala maker, refuted claims of its products being banned in Singapore and Hong Kong due to alleged pesticide contamination.