The Hong Kong government has imposed a ban on the sale of and recalled four spice products imported from India.
The ban comes in light of concerns regarding pesticide content detected in the products, a national daily reported on Monday.
The affected spice products include MDH Madras Curry Powder, MDH Sambhar Masala, MDH Curry Powder, and Everest Fish Curry Masala.
According to a statement issued by Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety (CFS), the decision to recall the products was made after routine testing as part of the Food Surveillance Programme revealed the presence of ethylene oxide, a pesticide, in the samples.
The CFS promptly informed the concerned vendors about the irregularities and instructed them to cease the sale and remove the affected products from shelves.
The distributors and importers have initiated recalls on these products as per the directive from the CFS.
The statement further highlighted the classification of ethylene oxide as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
It emphasised that food products containing pesticide residue must not pose any danger to health for sale to be permissible under Hong Kong statute.
Violation of this regulation could lead to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for up to six months upon conviction.
Ethylene oxide is recognised as a top-level cancer-causing substance, and its presence in food products raises significant health concerns.
The spokesperson reiterated that adherence to food safety laws is paramount, highlighting that foods with pesticide residues should only be sold if they are deemed safe for consumption.
As investigations continue and recalls are underway, authorities are urging consumers to remain vigilant and refrain from consuming the affected spice products to safeguard public health.
