Britain has toughened its stance regarding Indian spices. It has further increased the scrutiny of imports by keeping strict vigil on all spices imported from India. Britain’s food regulator said it has imposed additional control measures on all spices imported from India. It has become the first country to test all Indian spices after contamination allegations against two brands raised concerns among global food regulators, The Economic Times reported.
Hong Kong also took steps
According to the news, earlier last month, Hong Kong had suspended the sale of three spice mixes made by MDH and one made by Everest. It was said that they contained high amounts of the cancer-causing pesticide ethylene oxide. Apart from this, Singapore has also ordered the recall of Everest Spice. On the other hand, New Zealand, United States, Australia have also said that they are considering this matter related to both the brands.
MDH and Everest said- the product is safe for use
However, India’s two most popular brands MDH and Everest have said that their products are safe to use. Britain’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) said it has implemented additional control measures for pesticide residues in spices coming from India, including ethylene oxide, following concerns. However, the agency did not say what steps it was taking. The FSA said in a statement to Reuters that the use of ethylene oxide is not permitted in Britain.
No comment from Spice Board
The UK Food Standards Agency has reiterated that it will take swift action if there is any unsafe food or ingredients on the market. The Spices Board of India did not immediately respond to a request for comment. India is the largest exporter, consumer and producer of spices in the world. According to the news, in the year 2022, Britain imported spices worth $128 million, of which India’s share was about $23 million.
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