Singapore has issued a recall for Everest’s Fish Curry Masala due to concerns over the presence of ethylene oxide pesticide, which exceeds permissible limits. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) directed importer Sp Muthiah and Sons Pvt Ltd to withdraw the affected products after an investigation.
“The Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong has issued a notification on the recall of Everest Fish Curry Masala from India due to the presence of ethylene oxide at levels exceeding the permissible limit. As the implicated products were imported into Singapore, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has directed the importer, Sp Muthiah & Sons Pte. Ltd., to recall the products. The recall is ongoing,” the notification stated. The popular spice maker has not yet responded to the recall notice.
According to the SFA, ethylene oxide is unauthorized for use in food and is typically used in agricultural settings to prevent microbial contamination. However, Singapore’s food regulations allow its use in spice sterilization. While the SFA assures that there is minimal immediate risk to consumers from low levels of ethylene oxide, it emphasizes the importance of minimizing exposure due to potential long-term health implications.
“Although there is no immediate risk to consumption of food contaminated with low levels of ethylene oxide, long-term exposure may lead to health issues. Therefore, exposure to this substance should be minimized as much as possible. Consumers who have purchased the implicated products are advised not to consume it. Those who have consumed the implicated products and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice. Consumers may contact their point of purchase for enquiries,” the directive added.
Consumers who have purchased the affected products are advised not to consume them, and those with health concerns should seek medical advice. The SFA also encourages consumers to contact their point of purchase for further inquiries.