Several steps taken to prevent EtO contamination in spices exported from India: Official

India has implemented measures to prevent the contamination of spices exported from the country with EtO (ethylene oxide), a carcinogenic chemical, following reports of recall of products from Indian spice brands in Singapore and Hong Kong. The Spices Board has mandated testing of spice consignments destined for these regions and conducted a root cause analysis, including inspections of processing facilities and sample collection for testing in accredited labs. Mandatory sampling and testing for EtO residues have been enforced for all spice shipments to Singapore and Hong Kong since May 7, 2024, along with reiterated guidelines for EtO treatment for exporters.