International agency finds cancer-causing chemicals in popular Indian spice brands

Recently, a report published on the official website of Hong Kong’s food regulatory authority-- Centre for Food Safety (CFS) on April 5th mentioned that three spice products in India have cancer-causing chemicals that contain a pesticide known as ethylene oxide. Here’s all you need to know about this shocking report.

The report
Food regulators in Hong Kong and Singapore released a report in the first week of April and warned the masses to avoid adding spices products from India as they were tested with cancer causing substances Ethylene oxide.The list of spices include three spice products from two big Indian companies MDH and one from Everest that have exceeded the permissible limit of chemicals. However, the companies haven’t responded to the report of levels exceeding the permissible limit.

The spices and cancer causing substances
The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified ethylene oxide as a 'Group 1 carcinogen'. Hong Kong’s food regulatory authority, said that three spice products of MDH -- Madras Curry Powder (spice blend for Madras Curry), Sambhar Masala (Mixed Masala Powder), and Curry Powder (Mixed Masala Powder) -- along with Everest’s Fish Curry Masala contains a pesticide, ethylene oxide.
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This study was conducted under its routine food surveillance programme, the CFS took the products from three retail outlets in Hong Kong. “The test results showed that the samples contained a pesticide, ethylene oxide,” said to a CFS spokesperson.

As per a report by IANS, it was mentioned that the regulator instructed the vendors “to stop the sale and remove from shelves the affected products”.
“According to the Pesticide Residues in Food Regulation (Cap. 132CM), food for human consumption containing pesticide residue may only be sold if consumption of the food is not dangerous or prejudicial to health. An offender is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months upon conviction," the CFS spokesperson said.
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AS per CFS noted that “investigations are ongoing” and “appropriate action” may be initiated in the matter. Meanwhile, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) also ordered a recall of Everest's Fish Curry Masala due to the presence of ethylene oxide at levels “exceeding the permissible limit”.
The SFA posted a release on its website on April 18 that said it “has directed the importer, Sp Muthiah & Sons Pte. Ltd., to recall the products. The recall is ongoing.”
The SFA mentioned in the report that ethylene oxide is not fit for consumption, but is “used to fumigate agricultural products to prevent microbial contamination”. However, under Singapore’s food regulations, ethylene oxide can be “used in the sterilization of spices”.
It was also mentioned that there is no immediate risk to consuming foods with low levels of ethylene oxide, but the carcinogenic properties of this pesticide may trigger cancer cells on prolonged consumption and may lead to health hazards in the long run. As per the SFA, noting that exposure to the “substance should be minimized as much as possible”.
After this revelation that cancer causing chemicals were found in the spices, the European Union's food safety authorities have now discovered cancerous chemicals in as many as 527 food products.
Benefits of eating spices
Many spices, such as turmeric, cinnamon, and cloves, are rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. There are spices including ginger, garlic, and cayenne pepper, that possess anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate inflammation in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, arthritis, and certain types of cancer. They also aid digestion by promoting the production of digestive enzymes, reducing bloating, gas, and indigestion, and soothing the digestive tract.
Spices like cayenne pepper, black pepper, and mustard seeds contain compounds that may increase metabolism, boost calorie expenditure, and promote weight loss and fat burning when included in the diet. Certain spices, including cinnamon and fenugreek, have been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin resistance, making them beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing it. Regular consumption of these spices may be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been studied for its potential neuroprotective effects. It may help improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
Spices like garlic, turmeric, and cayenne pepper have been associated with cardiovascular benefits. They may help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, prevent blood clot formation, and improve overall heart function, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke. Certain spices, such as saffron, have been studied for their potential mood-enhancing effects. Consuming spices rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds may also indirectly support mental health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. Consuming spices like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon regularly may help reduce inflammation in the body, alleviating symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma.
Spices like cayenne pepper contain capsaicin, a compound that has been shown to boost metabolism, reduce appetite, and promote fat burning. Cayenne pepper may also help relieve pain, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of stomach ulcers. Seeds of coriander exhibit antimicrobial properties, meaning they can help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi. This can be beneficial for maintaining oral health, preventing foodborne illnesses, and supporting the immune system. Cumin seeds contain antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and inflammation. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric may help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with conditions like arthritis, muscle soreness, and menstrual cramps. It can provide natural pain relief without the side effects associated with some medications. Another spice that is full of benefits is star anise. In traditional medicine, star anise has been used to alleviate digestive issues like bloating, gas, and indigestion. It contains compounds that may help to promote digestion and soothe the digestive tract, making it a popular ingredient in herbal remedies for gastrointestinal discomfort.
Due to the rising adulteration cases and international ban on several masalas, FSSAI has now increased the limit of permissible pesticide levels by 10 times, which will prohibit adulteration cases.
Also Read: This spice has more health benefits than meat and veggies