The UK's Food Standards Agency (FSA) clarified on Thursday that it has implemented additional control measures for pesticide residues in spices from India since earlier this year, dismissing reports of recent steps taken. The agency highlighted its existing early warning system (EWS) for monitoring maximum residue levels of ethylene oxide (ETO), a prohibited food contaminant, in various Indian spices since early last year.
Natasha Smith, Deputy Director of Food Policy at the FSA, emphasized that the use of ethylene oxide is not permitted in the UK, and maximum residue levels are enforced for herbs and spices. She assured consumers that the FSA would swiftly intervene to address any unsafe food on the market.
Ethylene oxide is commonly used overseas to control pathogens like salmonella but is banned in the UK. The FSA has been issuing alerts for ETO in Indian spices through its monthly imports EWS notifications to enforcement officers at UK ports and local authorities since before January 2023. This prompts surveillance sampling for ETO, potentially leading to adjustments in UK official controls legislation.
Food businesses are responsible for ensuring compliance with safety standards, and if commodities exceed maximum residue levels, they must take corrective action. The FSA regularly reviews control measures for imported high-risk food and feed to maintain consumer access to safe imported products.
India is a major spice producer, exporting to numerous countries. Last month, Singapore and Hong Kong halted sales of certain spices from Indian brands MDH and Everest due to suspected elevated ETO levels associated with cancer risk. In response, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) initiated examinations of powdered spices from various brands to assess quality.
