Food regulators in Hong Kong and Singapore have issued warnings regarding the use of certain products from two prominent spice brands, MDH and Everest, due to the presence of ethylene oxide exceeding permissible limits. The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) in Hong Kong identified three MDH products—Madras Curry Powder, Sambhar Masala, and Curry Powder—and one Everest product, Fish Curry Masala, as containing ethylene oxide. Both companies are yet to respond to the regulators’ claims.
The CFS, through its routine food surveillance program, obtained samples from three retail outlets in Hong Kong, which revealed the presence of ethylene oxide. Consequently, the regulator instructed vendors to halt sales and remove the affected products from shelves, with recalls already underway. According to food regulations, products with pesticide residues exceeding safety limits are prohibited from sale, with potential penalties including fines and imprisonment upon conviction.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing, with the possibility of further action by the CFS. Similarly, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has ordered a recall of Everest’s Fish Curry Masala for the same reason. The SFA emphasized that ethylene oxide, while used to fumigate agricultural products, is unfit for consumption and may pose health risks upon prolonged exposure. Although immediate risks from low levels of ethylene oxide are minimal, long-term exposure can lead to health issues, including cancer, as classified by the US Environmental Protection Agency. The SFA advised consumers not to consume the affected products and seek medical advice if necessary.