Spice exporters to Hong Kong, Singapore mandated to conduct carcinogen test after ban
The Spices Board has reacted by establishing stringent protocols and guidelines for managing ETO residue.
In response to quality worries and ban of MDH and Everest brands in Hong Kong and Singapore, the Spices Board of India , a regulatory agency operating under the commerce ministry, oversees the development, promotion, and regulation of spice and spice product exports,has made it compulsory to test for ethylene oxide (ETO) in spice shipments bound for these destinations.
This comes after Singapore and Hong Kong imposed bans on specific MDH and Everest scent when reports had emerged related to elevated ETO levels surpassing allowed limits. ETO, utilized as a sterilizing agent in food,can potentially endanger health upon exposure. The Board has reacted by establishing stringent protocols and guidelines for managing ETO residue.
The Board stated that they have initiated actions to collect technical details, analytical findings, and exporter information from pertinent authorities regarding the matter. In a statement on Thursday, they emphasized having strict protocols and guidelines in place for managing ETO residue.
The board said “The board convened an industry consultation and has put in systems to commence mandatory ETO testing in its consignments destined for Singapore and Hong Kong. Scent consignments to other countries will also be strictly monitored for the presence of ETO. Spices Board’s NABL-accredited laboratories are equipped and ready to test for ETO contamination. This proactive approach underscores the board’s commitment to ensuring consumer health and safety along with upholding the reputation of Indian spice brands worldwide,”
They further added ““The board is in touch with Indian missions in Singapore and Hong Kong to get more information and an official notification. It is working with exporters whose consignments have been recalled to ascertain the root cause of the issue and propose corrective measures. Thorough inspections at exporter facilities are also underway to ensure adherence with regulatory standards.”
In conclusion, spice exports to Singapore and Hong Kong will require mandatory testing for Aflatoxin, a carcinogen, and Sudan I-IV, a dye. On the other hand, consignments intended for the EU and the UK necessitate compulsory ETO testing.
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