Context

• Recently at least five countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong and the USA, Australia have announced investigations into possible contamination of spice blends sold by top Indian brands, MDH and Everest.

The underlying reasons behind the announcement of investigation

• These countries have taken this step due to adulteration of ethylene oxide, a poisonous chemical used to stabilize food, in MDH and Everest spices.
• It is noteworthy that the Spice Board defines ethylene oxide as a flammable, colorless gas at temperatures above 10.7 Celsius.
• It works as a disinfectant, sterilizing agent and insecticide.
• It is used to sterilize medical instruments and reduce microbial contamination in spices.
• The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies ethylene oxide as a 'Group 1 carcinogen'. That means it can cause cancer in humans.
• Ethylene oxide can cause cancers like lymphoma and leukemia. Stomach and breast cancer can also occur.

Reaction of Spices Board and FSSAI

• After this incident, both the Spices Board and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) have started regular sampling.

US FDA Response

• The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has refused to allow Indian products to enter the country.

Important statistics related to spices trade

• In the financial year 2022-23, India exported spices worth Rs 32,000 crore.
• Chilli, cumin, turmeric, curry powder and cardamom are the major spices exported.
• The US (₹196.2 crore), India's top three importers of curry powder and mixes,
• United Arab Emirates (₹170.6 crore)
• UK (₹124.9 crore) is included.
• If we talk about the  financial year 2023-24, India's export of spices was $ 4.25 billion, which is 12 percent of the total global export of spices.

Impact on India's spice trade

• According to the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), if the regulator in China also bans MDH and Everest spices like in Hong Kong, then Indian exports may see a decline.
• This could impact exports worth $2.17 billion, which is about 51.1% of the country's global spice exports.

Important Facts For Exam

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

• Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act)
• Type: Autonomous Statutory Body
• Administrative Ministry:Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
• Headquarters: Delhi