In an effort to ensure that Indian spice exports meet international standards, the Spices Board of India is conducting inspections at MDH and Everest processing plants. These inspections aim to address compliance issues and improve the safety and quality of spices being exported, particularly following recent concerns about pesticide residues.
Recent Concerns Over Ethylene Oxide (EtO)
The move comes after health authorities in Hong Kong and Singapore raised alarms about ethylene oxide (EtO) levels in spices from MDH and Everest. On April 5, Hong Kong advised against consuming four specific products from these brands due to EtO contamination. Shortly after, on April 18, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) recalled Everest’s fish curry masala for similar reasons, deeming the EtO levels “not fit for human consumption.”
International Standards and Compliance
The Commerce and Industry Ministry provided data on Maximum Residue
Levels (MRL) for EtO, highlighting significant variations across countries:
Singapore: 50 mg/kg
European Union: 0.02 to 0.01 mg/kg
Japan: 0.01 mg/kg
United States and Canada: 7 mg/kg
Hong Kong: EtO is completely banned in food products
Despite these strict standards, the ministry noted that 99.8% of India’s spice exports in 2023–24 met international quality requirements, with only 0.2% of consignments being non-compliant.
Addressing the Issue with Technology and Best Practices
Officials are exploring several measures to prevent future non-compliance, including:
Steam Sterilisation Technology: A method to reduce microbial contamination.
Supply Chain Tracking: Enhancing traceability to ensure quality control throughout the production process.
Understanding Ethylene Oxide
Ethylene oxide is commonly used as a fumigant in the food and pharmaceutical industries. When not properly aerated, it can react with chlorine in food particles, forming 2-Chloroethanol, a potentially harmful substance. However, if correctly managed, EtO does not pose a significant health risk.
Global Regulatory Landscape
The complexity of global regulations for EtO residue levels is evident. Different countries set their own standards based on dietary habits and health assessments. For example, while the CODEX Alimentarius, under the World Trade Organization (WTO), provides international guidelines, developed nations often impose stricter limits.
Evolving Testing Methods
Testing methods for EtO vary globally, leading to inconsistencies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, discrepancies in test results, including false positives, highlighted the need for harmonized testing standards. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is still assessing the toxicity of 2-Chloroethanol, further complicating the regulatory landscape.
Balancing Regulation and Business
Officials stressed that regulatory measures must balance safety with economic impacts. Excessive regulation can increase business costs and hinder trade. Consequently, India focuses its stringent regulations on major export markets like the EU.
India’s Spice Export Landscape
India’s spice exports reached $4.25 billion in 2023–24, up from $3.7 billion in the previous year, holding a 12% share of the global spice market. Major exported spices include:
Chilli Powder: $1.3 billion
Cumin: $550 million
Turmeric: $220 million
Cardamom: $130 million
Mixed Spices: $110 million
Spice Oils and Oleoresins: $1 billion
Conclusion
The Spices Board of India’s proactive inspections at MDH and Everest plants signify a strong commitment to maintaining high standards in spice exports. By adopting advanced technologies and improving supply chain practices, India aims to continue its growth in the global spice market while ensuring the safety and quality of its products.
Comments