Ethylene
Oxide: Overview
Introduction
Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a colorless, flammable gas with a faintly
sweet odor. It is broadly used in the production of various consumer goods
including detergents, solvents, and plastics. Moreover, EtO serves as a
sterilizing agent for medical equipment and certain food products. However, due
to its classification as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for
Research on Cancer, monitoring and detecting EtO levels is essential for
ensuring food safety.
In April 2024, health authorities in
Hong Kong and Singapore detected ethylene oxide, a carcinogenic compound, in
spice products exported from India.
Ethylene
Oxide: Uses and Risks
Ethylene oxide is a colorless gas
commonly used as a sterilizing agent and pesticide. While effective in
eliminating bacteria and pests, it is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, indicating a clear link to cancer
in humans. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious health issues, including
lymphoma, leukemia, and breast cancer.
Detection in
Indian Spices
The initial alert was raised by Hong
Kong's Centre for Food Safety, which found ethylene oxide in several spice
blends from MDH and Everest. Following this, Singapore's Food Agency recalled
Everest's Fish Curry Masala after detecting ethylene oxide levels exceeding
permissible limits.
Global
Response
The
contamination concerns prompted actions from various countries:
- United Kingdom: Enhanced control measures for
all Indian spice imports, focusing on pesticide residues.
- New Zealand and Australia: Initiated investigations into
potential contamination.
- United States: The Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) began scrutinizing Indian spice imports.
- Bangladesh and Maldives: Took steps to address the
issue, with the Maldives banning the sale of Indian spices.
These
actions underscore the global concern over food safety and the integrity of
imported spices.
Economic
Impact on India's Spice Industry
India is a major player in the
global spice market, exporting over 200 varieties to around 180 countries,
generating approximately $4 billion annually. Domestically, the spice market is
valued at $10 billion, making India the largest consumer of spices worldwide.
Brands like MDH and Everest have a substantial global presence, exporting to
regions including the US, Europe, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and
Australia. The Spices Board of India has mandated comprehensive product testing
for exports and is collaborating with exporters to trace the contamination
source. This incident has also prompted calls for stringent quality checks
within domestic markets, emphasizing the need for improved regulatory
oversight.
Industry and
Regulatory Responses
In response to the detections, the
Spices Board of India mandated pre-shipment testing for ethylene oxide residues
in all spice exports to Singapore and Hong Kong from May 7, 2024. Additionally,
the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) initiated nationwide
sampling of spices to ensure compliance with safety standards.
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