Ethylene oxide In Indian Spices:
Following red flags raised by food regulators in Hong Kong and Singapore regarding the presence of a cancer-causing ingredient in certain Indian spice products from some brands, the Indian government has ordered food commissioners to collect samples of spices from all manufacturing units in the country.
- The harmful substance, ethylene oxide, has been classified as a ‘Group 1 carcinogen’ by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
- Ethylene oxide is banned for use in food items in India.
- Ethylene oxide, primarily used as a sterilizing agent and insecticide, poses health risks including irritation of the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs, as well as potential long-term effects on the central nervous system and carcinogenic properties.
