The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has opened a probe into discovering the actual composition of two Indian spice makers’ blends that allegedly contain high levels of cancer-causing pesticides. Earlier this month, Hong Kong even dropped their sales (and banned) three spice mixes by MDH – Madras Curry Powder, Sambhar Masala Powder and Curry Powder – and an Everest spice blend – Fish Curry Masala, alleging the presence of hazardous amounts of ethylene oxide.
Reuters reported the US FDA’s review of the alleged health-threatening contamination. On Friday, a spokesperson added that the FDA was well aware of the reports and “is gathering additional information about the situation.”
The media outlet initially reported that while both brands have yet to comment on the issue, Everest eventually asserted on Tuesday that its spices were safe for consumption. The Indian spice giant also formally responded that its products were exported “only after receiving necessary clearances and approval from the laboratories of the Spice Board of India.”
MDH though disregarded the allegations as “baseless, untrue (with a) lack (of) any substantiating evidence.” MDH’s statement reported by the PTI added, “MDH has not received any communication from regulatory authorities of Singapore and Hong Kong” on Saturday. Furthermore, to reassure customers, the Indian spice brand firmly stated, “We abide by health and safety standards, both domestically and internationally.”
