The world’s authorities are doubling down on adulterated Indian masala exports, indicating poor implementation of standard control by Indian regulations. Amidst ongoing controversy over adulterated prepackaged masala mixes of Mahashian Di Hatti (MDH), the spice-related shipments exported to the United States by the company have reportedly seen an increase in rejection over salmonella contamination.
As per the Indian Express report, in the past six months, the US customs authorities refused the clearance of 31% of MDH spice shipments, as against 15% in 2023.
Two countries–Singapore and Hong Kong– came down heavily on certain products of MDH and Everest Food Products Pvt Ltd over the alleged presence of cancer-causing carcinogenic pesticides in them. Hong Kong banned the selling and buying of MDH and Everest spice articles, while Singapore recalled the spice mixes.
The two popular Indian spice brands are under the scanner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the USA. A Reuters report suggests the FDA is compiling information on MDH and Everest products.
“The FDA is aware of the reports and is gathering additional information about the situation,” an FDA spokesperson told Reuters last week.
Following the revelation of pesticides in Everest and MDH spices by Singapore and Hong Kong authorities, the Indian authorities acted immediately to inspect the root cause.
The Spices Board began inspecting the facilities of the implicated spice makers and even sought data on MDH and Everest from the importing countries.
“Thorough inspections at exporter facilities are also underway to ensure adherence with regulatory standards. … The Board is in touch with Indian missions in Singapore and Hong Kong to get more information,” it said in a statement.
Food safety regulator FSSAI has also begun collecting powdered spices from every masala brand in view to check quality standards.
“In view of the current development, FSSAI is taking samples of spices of all brands, including MDH and Everest, from the market to check whether they meet the FSSAI norms,” PTI quoted a person aware of the matter as saying.