India Widens Probe into Spice Makers After Contamination Concerns

India's food safety regulator has launched anationwide investigationinto spice manufacturers after two popular local brands, MDH and Everest, faced recalls and suspensions in several countries following suspected contamination. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has ordered extensive testing and inspections at all companies producing powdered spices, particularly those making curry powders and mixed spice blends for domestic and international markets.

The move comes after Hong Kong suspended sales of three MDH spice mixtures and one Everest spice mix for fish curry last month, citing high levels of ethylene oxide, a substance deemed unfit for human consumption and potentially carcinogenic with prolonged exposure. Singapore also ordered a recall of the same Everest spice mix. The United States and Australian food authorities are currently gathering more information on the matter.

Why this matters: The investigation into India's spice industry has significant implications for the country's agricultural exports and domestic economy, as spices are a major contributor to both. The outcome of this investigation could also impact India's global reputation as a leading supplier of quality spices, affecting trade relationships and consumer trust.

MDH and Everest products are immensely popular in India and are also sold in various markets across Europe, Asia, and North America. Both companies have asserted that their products are safe for consumption. However, the FSSAI's investigation will involve sampling each product and analyzing it for compliance with quality and safety parameters, including checks for the presence of ethylene oxide, which is banned in India.

In a statement, the FSSAI said, "Each of the product sampled will be analysed for the compliance with quality and safety parameters." The regulator added that appropriate actions would be initiated as needed after the testing is completed.

India is the world's largest exporter, producer, and consumer of spices, with its domestic market valued at $10.44 billion in 2022, according to Zion Market Research. The Spices Board of India reported that the country exported spice products worth $4 billion in the 2022-23 fiscal year. However, the rising global scrutiny could put more than half of India's spice exports at risk, as per a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative, a New Delhi-based think tank.

The report also warned that if China decides to implement similar measures as other countries, Indian spice exports could experience a dramatic downturn. This development has raised concerns among industry leaders, as spices are a significant contributor to India's agricultural exports and domestic economy.

The ongoing investigation and potential consequences have highlighted the importance of maintaining stringent quality control and food safety standards in the spice industry. The situation unfolding, how the Indian government and spice manufacturers will address these challenges and restore confidence in the country's spice exports is yet to be determined. The outcome of this investigation could have far-reaching implications for India's spice industry and its global reputation as a leading supplier of quality spicesacrossthe world.

Key Takeaways

• India's food safety regulator launches nationwide investigation into spice manufacturers.
• MDH and Everest brands face recalls and suspensions in several countries due to suspected contamination.
• FSSAI orders testing and inspections of all powdered spice manufacturers, especially curry powders and mixed spice blends.
• Investigation could impact India's agricultural exports, domestic economy, and global reputation as a leading spice supplier.
• Stringent quality control and food safety standards are crucial to restore confidence in India's spice exports.