In a move to calm consumers and assure them on the safety of their spices, the esteemed Indian spice company, MDH, made a public statement on Saturday. This communication serves as a direct response to claims concerning the safety of their products. MDH is responding to concerns raised by food regulatory bodies in both Hong Kong and Singapore regarding the reported presence of carcinogenic pesticides in their spices. The statement denounces these claims and maintains that their products remain safe for consumption.
This specific allegation originates from the Center for Food Safety (CFS) in Hong Kong which took issue with several prominent Indian spice brands including MDH and Everest. Reports indicated the possible presence of ethylene oxide, a commonly used sterilizing agent that has been flagged as a potential carcinogen. Subsequent to these reports, consumers were cautioned against purchasing, and traders against selling several spice products such as MDH’s Madras Curry Powder, MDH Sambhar Masala Mixed Masala Powder, and Everest Fish Curry Masala.
Addressing the allegations, MDH’s statement, candidly informed the public that they have not been directly approached by any food safety institution from Hong Kong or Singapore. This statement was corroborated by PTI (Press Trust of India) reports that suggest no formal communication has occurred between MDH and the aforementioned regulatory bodies. MDH levied particular emphasis on the statements being not just unsubstantiated but entirely devoid of evidence. These developments come amidst ongoing reciprocal respect and negotiations in international spice trade relations.
MDH has taken the initiative to highlight its commitment to maintaining international health and safety criteria. The company alludes to its catchphrase, ‘Asli Masale Sach Sach, MDH MDH’ combined with ‘Real Spices of India’, mirroring its enduring commitment to delivering genuinely high-quality and authentic spices to its customers. Notably, the brand sits amidst the global spice market as a reputable vendor cherished for both its product excellence and culinary authenticity.
The tension around these allegations reverberated further when the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) ordered a recall of Everest’s Fish Curry Masala following the footsteps of its Hong Kong counterpart. This action showcases the ripple effect of food safety allegations across markets and the connectedness of international food regulations.
India’s stature as the world’s premiere spice haven is well established. Being the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of spices, with valuations soaring nearly to Rs 32,000 crore, signifies the crucial role the spice sector plays in India’s economy. This industry provides a wide array of spices including, but not limited to, chilli, cumin, spice oils, oleoresins, turmeric, curry powder, and cardamom to markets across the globe.
In its ongoing efforts to reassure all stakeholders, MDH adamantly discredits the presence of ETO (ethylene oxide) in any of its products. The company upholds that the allegations hold no water without proper evidence and insists on its dedication to adhering to international food safety regulations and practices. The tagline ensconced within its brand identity propagates a culture of trust and authenticity inherent to MDH’s ethos.
As the situation evolves, consumers and traders alike are keenly watching as MDH navigates through the claims, steadfast in their resolve to ensure the continued safe and delightful experience of their spices across global kitchens. With a history steeped in trust, MDH remains confident in the quality of their spices, fervently dismissing any claims that may suggest otherwise, and further asserting their position as a leading name in the spice industry.
