The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating products from Indian spice manufacturers MDH and Everest following Hong Kong’s decision to halt sales of some products due to high levels of carcinogenic pesticides.
An FDA spokesperson stated, “The FDA is aware of the reports and is gathering additional information about the situation.”
Hong Kong recently suspended sales of three MDH spice blends and an Everest spice mix for fish curries. Additionally, Singapore has recalled the Everest spice mix, citing unsafe levels of ethylene oxide, a cancer risk with prolonged exposure.
Reuters have approached MDH and Everest for comments but have not yet responded.
Everest has previously asserted that its spices are safe for consumption, while MDH has not yet addressed inquiries regarding its products.
MDH and Everest are prominent brands in India and marketed in Europe, Asia, and North America. Following the actions in Hong Kong and Singapore, India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is now examining these companies’ quality standards.
On Wednesday, the Spices Board of India, which oversees spice exports, reported seeking data on MDH and Everest exports from Hong Kong and Singapore authorities. The board is collaborating with the companies to identify the root cause of the quality issues as inspections at their manufacturing plants begin.
Read: Hong Kong and Singapore Ban Indian Spices Over Carcinogenic Concerns
Following a 2019 incident, some MDH products were recalled in the US due to salmonella contamination.
