Wednesday, May 8

Pesticide Presence ‘Beyond Limit’, Singapore Recalls Everest Fish Curry Masala

Edited by Hiba Anvar
Pesticide Presence ‘Beyond Limit’, Singapore Recalls Everest Fish Curry Masala (image-everestfoods)

Citing the presence of Ethylene oxide, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA ) has recalled Everest’s Fish Curry Masala, a popular product in India. A statement was released on Thursday by the agency stating that the product contained ethylene oxide more than the permissible limit. 

SFA has instructed the importer, Sp Muthiah and Sons Pvt Ltd, to withdraw the affected products from circulation. “The Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong has issued a notification on the recall of Everest Fish Curry Masala from India due to the presence of ethylene oxide at levels exceeding permissible limit,” the statement read. 

Ethlyene oxide is used to fumigate agricultural products to prevent microbial contamination and is not authorised to be used in food. Under Singapore’s Food Regulations, the chemical can be used in the sterilization of spices. 

Meanwhile, the SFA has clarified that lower levels of ethylene oxide pose no immediate health risk but prolonged exposure may lead to health complications. The Agency has requested the consumers who have purchased the items not to consume it.

“Exposure to this substance should be minimised as much as possible. Consumers who have purchased the implicated products are advised not to consume it,” the statement read. 

According to the statement, consumers are advised to seek medical advice if they are concerned about any health issues. The SFA has stressed minimizing exposure to the substance. The food agency also stated that consumers can reach out to their point of purchase for inquiries regarding the affected products. 

As of now Everest Spices has not responded to the recall notice. The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) released a statement on April 5 regarding the discovery of ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen in several prepackaged spice mix products. Among the affected items are from Indian Masala maker MDH’s Sambhar Masala Mixed Masala Powder, Madras Curry Powder (Spice blend for Madras Curry), and Curry Powder Mixed Masala Powder, along with Everest’s Fish Curry Masala.