Brussels: Indian spices have been discussed all over the world for centuries, but this time they are in the headlines for a different reason. After cancer-causing chemical was found in four spices of Indian companies, a warning has been issued regarding its use in Singapore and Hong Kong. It is said that an element called ethylene oxide has been found in these spices, which is responsible for cancer. After the warning was issued, the debate on Indian spices has intensified. Meanwhile, new information has come to light that ethylene oxide, due to which action has been taken against Indian spices in Singapore and Hong Kong, this chemical has also been found routinely in Indian products going to Europe. European Food Safety Authority During investigation, a substance called ethylene oxide has been continuously found in Indian products, but the European agency has not taken any measures to stop the use of this chemical. According to a Deccan Herald report, between September 2020 and April 2024, food safety authorities within the European Union have found ethylene oxide in 527 products originating from India. These products include walnuts and sesame seeds (313), medicinals and spices (60), food items (48) and other edible products (34). Of these products, 87 consignments were sent back from the border while most were later removed from the market.
What is ethylene oxide?
Ethylene oxide is a colored gas, which is used as a pesticide. However, this chemical was originally created to sterilize medical equipment. It is said that exposure to ethylene oxide can increase the risk of other cancers including lymphoma and leukemia.
Why were Indian spices banned? This chemical causes cancer.
332 products have direct connection with India
The Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) is an online system that monitors food safety standards in European countries. Its data shows that the chemical has been found in 525 food products and two feed products. Of these, 332 products are directly related to India, while in the rest other countries have also been held responsible. Ubin George Joseph, COO of Ramaiah Advanced Testing Labs, said that apart from direct exposure to ethylene oxide, consumers are sensitive to two more chemicals. The most dangerous of these, he said, is ethylene glycol, whose presence in cough syrup has led to the deaths of children in Africa.
