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Hong Kong recently banned several spice variants manufactured by MDH and manufactured by Everest Food Products. The decision was taken after officials from the Center for Food Safety (CFS) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government reportedly found the presence of cancer-causing pesticide ethylene oxide in the spice mix.
MDH’s Madras Curry Powder, Sambar Masala Mixed Spice Powder and Curry Powder Mixed Spice Powder are now banned in Hong Kong. Everest’s fish curry masala is also similar.
The CFS had collected food samples from three shops in Tsim Sha Tsui for routine testing and ethylene oxide was found in the samples. CFS informed stores about the issue and asked them to stop selling and remove these products from their shelves.
Distributors and importers had started recalling these products. A CFS spokesperson said in a release on April 5 that people can call a hotline provided during office hours for more information about the recall.
Ethylene oxide has been recognized as a top-tier cancer-causing substance by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. According to food safety laws, foods containing pesticide residues can only be sold if they are safe to eat. The spokesperson said that if anyone breaks this rule, he can face a fine of $50,000 and six months in jail.
Singapore bans Everest products
After Hong Kong’s instructions, Singapore has also followed it. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) directed the importer, SP Muthiah & Sons, to recall Everest Fish Curry Masala on April 18.
“Ethylene oxide is a pesticide that is not authorized for use in food. It can be used to fumigate agricultural products to prevent microbial contamination. Under Singapore’s food regulations, ethylene oxide is permitted to be used in disinfection of spices,” it said.
Does ethylene oxide cause cancer?
At the same time, it has also been reported that eating small amounts of ethylene oxide is not immediately harmful, but over time it can cause health problems. Therefore, people should avoid this substance as much as possible.
“Consumers who have purchased the underlying product are advised not to consume it. “People who have consumed the products in question and are concerned about their health should seek medical advice,” the Singapore SFA said in its media release.
According to the US National Cancer Institute, lymphoma and leukemia are the types of cancer most often associated with working with ethylene oxide. Stomach and breast cancer may also be related to exposure to this chemical. It says ethylene oxide can damage DNA, which helps it disinfect things but also makes it capable of causing cancer.
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Published: April 22, 2024, 03:15 PM IST
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