Australian Food Safety Agency Scrutinizes MDH and Everest Spices After International Recalls

Following recent setbacks in the US, Hong Kong, and Singapore, Indian spice giants MDH and Everest are now under the watchful eye of Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ). The Australian regulator announced on April 30th that it is investigating allegations of contamination in spice mixes produced by these Indian companies. This probe has the potential to trigger product recalls in Australia, similar to the measures taken in other countries.

FSANZ Investigates Potential Ethylene Oxide Contamination

"We are collaborating with international counterparts to gain a deeper understanding of the issue," FSANZ stated in a press release. "We are also working with federal, state, and territory food enforcement agencies to determine if further action, potentially including a recall, is necessary in Australia."

The agency emphasized, as per Reuters, that "ethylene oxide is not permitted as a treatment for food products sold in Australia."

US FDA and Indian Regulators Take Action

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on April 26th that it is currently gathering additional information regarding the matter. Indian regulatory bodies have also recently conducted inspections at the facilities of MDH and Everest.

The report further highlights that the FDA had previously mandated recalls:

• Multiple batches of an MDH product in 2019 due to salmonella contamination.

• Two spice mixes from Everest in 2023 for similar contamination concerns.

FDA's Previous Recalls:

In 2019, the FDA mandated a recall of several batches of an MDH product due to salmonella contamination. Similarly, in 2023, the agency directed a recall of two spice mixes from Everest for similar contamination risks, highlighting the recurring nature of these concerns.

India Seeks Information from Hong Kong and Singapore

Last week, India requested data from Hong Kong and Singapore concerning exports of MDH and Everest spices following the regulatory actions taken in those countries. The Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong recently informed the Indian embassy "of the test results for follow-up actions," according to the report, although specific details were not disclosed.

Context: India's Spice Industry and Market Share

India holds the distinction of being the world's largest exporter, consumer, and producer of spices. MDH and Everest are leading players in India's spice market, valued at a staggering $10.44 billion in 2022 (Zion Market Research). During the fiscal year 2022-23 alone, India exported spices worth $4 billion.

Significance of MDH and Everest:

MDH and Everest are prominent players in India's spice market, which is valued at $10.44 billion in 2022 according to Zion Market Research. These companies play a pivotal role in India's spice industry, which is a significant contributor to the country's economy. In the fiscal year 2022-23, India exported spices worth $4 billion, underscoring the importance of maintaining quality standards in the global market.