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Sunday, November 10, 2024

Cancer-Causing Chemicals in Indian Spices – Cause for Concern?

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MDH and Everest Spice Mixes Banned in Hong Kong and Singapore Due to Cancer-Causing Chemical

Several popular spice mixes from Indian brands MDH and Everest have been banned in Hong Kong and Singapore. The reason? These spice powders contained a harmful chemical called ethylene oxide.

What is Ethylene Oxide? Ethylene oxide is a pesticide that can kill bacteria and prevent food from going bad. However, it is also considered a major cause of cancer by health experts. The chemical can damage DNA over time, leading to cancers like lymphoma, leukemia, stomach cancer, and breast cancer.

Hong Kong Bans MDH and Everest Spices Food safety officials in Hong Kong found ethylene oxide in samples of:

  • MDH Madras Curry Powder
  • MDH Sambhar Masala Powder
  • MDH Curry Powder
  • Everest Fish Curry Masala

These popular Indian spice mixes have now been banned from sale in Hong Kong. Stores were ordered to remove the products, and suppliers have begun recalling them. Breaking food safety rules in Hong Kong can result in hefty fines up to $50,000 HKD and jail time.

Singapore Follows with Everest Recall After Hong Kong’s ban, the Singapore Food Agency also directed the importer to recall Everest Fish Curry Masala containing ethylene oxide residues. While tiny amounts may not cause immediate harm, long-term exposure increases cancer risks.

What Should Consumers Do? Health authorities advise consumers not to eat any of the recalled MDH and Everest spice products. Those who have consumed them should watch for potential symptoms and see a doctor if concerned about their health.

The bans in Hong Kong and Singapore demonstrate how food regulatory bodies aim to protect public health by preventing consumption of foods with potentially carcinogenic substances like ethylene oxide pesticides.

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