KUCHING, May 29: The Health Ministry has banned the sale of two Indian spice brands, namely Everest Fish Curry Masala and MDH Curry Powder in Malaysia, as they are believed to contain ethylene oxide.
In a press statement, the Ministry said ethylene oxide, which is often used to kill pests, is also used in spices to control microbiological contamination caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi.
“In addition, it is also used as an active ingredient in detergents. Nowadays, its use in food and food contact materials is not allowed because ethylene oxide is carcinogenic (can cause cancer),” said the Ministry.
According to the Food Safety Information System of Malaysia (FoSIM), as of April 2024, only the Everest Fish Curry Masala has been imported. There is no indication of imports for MDH Curry Powder.
The Ministry has ordered all traders to remove the two products from shelves and all e-commerce and social media platforms are to cease advertising for the brands with immediate effect.
“Currently, the Ministry of Health is monitoring the content of aflatoxin, heavy metals and pesticide residues in all spice products and their gateways to the country.
“Monitoring results from 2019 until April 2024 found that 43 samples taken are in compliance with legal requirements under the Food Act 1983 and the Food Regulations 1985,” said the Ministry. — DayakDaily
