Indian Spice Maker MDH Denies Contamination Claims as Hong Kong and Singapore Suspend Sales

Indian spice brand MDH has strongly denied allegations of contamination in its products after food safety regulators in Hong Kong and Singapore suspended sales and recalled certain MDH and Everest spice products over alleged high levels of the pesticide ethylene oxide, a potential cancer risk. MDH stated that these claims are "untrue and lack any substantiating evidence" and that the company has not received any communication from the regulatory authorities in Hong Kong or Singapore.

The company asserted that it abides by all health and safety standards and does not use ethylene oxide at any stage of its spice production. "MDH does not use ethylene oxide at any stage of storing, processing, or packing its spices, and the claims of ETO presence are 'untrue and lack any substantial evidence,'" the company said in a statement. MDH reiterated its commitment to providing authentic, high-quality spices to its customers.

Why this matters: As India's largest spice producer and exporter, with exports worth nearly Rs 32,000 crore in 2022-23, any contamination issues could have significant implications for the country's spice industry and reputation. The allegations against major brands like MDH and Everest also raise concerns about food safety standards and regulatory oversight.

Following the recalls in Hong Kong and Singapore, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has launched a sampling and testing drive of spice products from major brands, including MDH and Everest. The Spices Board of India has also sought technical details from the authorities in Hong Kong and Singapore and initiated mandatory testing of ethylene oxide for spice consignments bound for those countries.

MDH claimed that the FSSAI and Spices Board have not received any communication or test reports from Hong Kong and Singapore, which the company says reinforces that the allegations against it are "baseless, unsubstantiated, and not backed by any concrete evidence." The company emphasized its 105-year legacy and the ethos of its late founding chairman and current chairman to only promote and sell products they would consume themselves.

In a statement, MDH said: "We reassure our buyers and customers about the safety and quality of all our products. MDH abides by health and safety standards both domestically and internationally. The allegations of contamination are baseless, untrue and lack any substantiating evidence." The company remains committed to maintaining the trust and confidence of its consumers amid these challenges.

Key Takeaways

• MDH denies allegations of contamination in its spice products, claims no evidence.
• MDH asserts it does not use ethylene oxide at any stage of spice production.
• Recalls in Hong Kong and Singapore raise concerns about India's spice industry.
• FSSAI and Spices Board launch testing of major brands like MDH and Everest.
• MDH claims allegations are baseless, unsubstantiated, and not backed by evidence.