According to the guidelines, exporters must avoid the use of ETO in spices. They must also ensure that no level of this chemical is present in spices at any stage of transportation, storage, or packaging material supply. Exporters are required to take adequate measures to ensure the absence of ETO and its metabolites in spices and spice products throughout the supply chain.
This move follows bans imposed by Hong Kong and Singapore on popular spice brands MDH and Everest after carcinogenic residues of Ethylene Oxide were found in their products. The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) in Hong Kong had instructed consumers not to purchase and retailers not to sell MDH's Madras Curry Powder, Everest Fish Curry Masala, MDH Sambar Masala, and MDH Curry Powder Mixed Masala. It's worth noting that India's spice exports totaled $4.25 billion in the financial year 2023-24, accounting for 12% of global spice exports.
Amid concerns over the impact on exports, the economic think tank Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) emphasized the need for immediate attention to this issue. According to a report by GTRI, exports worth $700 million are at stake in critical markets. Regulatory actions in several countries could potentially result in a 50% loss in spice exports. It stressed the urgency for India to address quality-related issues promptly and transparently.
#Spices #Controversy #Guidelines #Exporters #EthyleneOxide
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