Mandatory Testing for Indian Spices Destined for Singapore, Hong Kong After Ban

In a significant development impacting the Indian spice industry, certain products from renowned Indian brands MDH and Everest have been banned in Singapore and Hong Kong due to quality concerns. The Spices Board, operating under the commerce ministry, has announced the initiation of mandatory testing for spice consignments destined for these countries. This move comes in response to the recall of these products, prompted by concerns over the presence of ethylene oxide, a sterilizing agent, beyond permissible limits.

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The board is actively engaging with the exporters affected by this recall to identify the root cause and implement necessary corrective measures. It has also commenced thorough inspections at exporter facilities to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. In light of heightened scrutiny, the Spices Board has convened an industry consultation to establish systems for mandatory ETO testing in spice consignments headed to Singapore and Hong Kong.

India, recognized as the world's largest producer, consumer, and exporter of spices, has taken proactive steps by seeking detailed reports from food safety regulators in Singapore and Hong Kong. The commerce ministry has further directed Indian embassies in these countries to provide comprehensive reports on the matter. Additionally, details have been requested from MDH and Everest regarding the alleged contamination.

The Spices Board is also gathering technical information, analytical reports, and exporter data from relevant authorities to address this issue effectively. An advisory circular is being issued to raise awareness among the export community about ETO contamination, alongside providing comprehensive guidelines. The Board is committed to updating and making available detailed information on ETO regulations from various countries to exporters and the public.

With NABL accredited laboratories equipped for ETO testing, the Spices Board is taking stringent measures to monitor spice consignments for ETO presence. This approach highlights the Board's dedication to ensuring consumer health and safety while maintaining the global reputation of Indian spice brands. The food safety regulator of Hong Kong has advised consumers against purchasing these products, and the Singapore Food Agency has mandated a recall.

In the fiscal year 2022-23, India exported spices valued at nearly Rs 32,000 crore, with chilli, cumin, spice oil and oleoresins, turmeric, curry powder, and cardamom being the major spices exported. This incident underscores the importance of adhering to international food safety standards to sustain and grow India's spice export market.