Singapore has issued a recall for Everest's Fish Curry Masala, a popular spice product in India, due to the alleged presence of ethylene oxide, a pesticide, in levels surpassing the permitted threshold. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) directed the importer, Sp Muthiah, and Sons Pvt Ltd, to initiate the recall after detecting the presence of ethylene oxide, which is not authorized for use in food and is typically employed to fumigate agricultural products to prevent microbial contamination.
Although ethylene oxide is permitted for the sterilization of spices under Singapore's Food Regulations, its presence in levels exceeding the permissible limit raises concerns regarding potential health risks. While the SFA clarified that there is no immediate risk associated with consuming food contaminated with low levels of ethylene oxide, prolonged exposure may pose health hazards.
In response to the recall, consumers who have purchased the affected products are advised not to consume them. Additionally, those who have already consumed the implicated products and are concerned about their health are urged to seek medical advice. The SFA emphasized the importance of minimizing exposure to ethylene oxide and encouraged consumers to contact their point of purchase for further inquiries.
As of now, Everest has yet to respond to the recall notice. The development underscores the significance of stringent food safety regulations and measures to ensure the quality and safety of food products consumed by the public.
