Controversy Over Cancer-Causing Substance in Indian Spices

Indian spice makers, including MDH and Everest, have come under scrutiny for the presence of ethylene oxide (ETO), a potential cancer-causing substance, in their products. This discovery has triggered bans in Singapore and Hong Kong, with the European Union and the US also investigating contaminated chilli peppers and peppercorns. ETO, primarily used to control microbial growth, has been linked to adverse health effects like organ damage and genetic harm. Despite denials from spice makers, concerns abound over the inadvertent contamination and the need for stricter quality checks by regulatory bodies.