Kochi: The Spices Board has taken decisive action in the wake of recent bans imposed by Singapore and Hong Kong on specific spice exports from Indian brands MDH and Everest due to the alleged discovery of Ethylene Oxide (ETO) in them. 

As the regulatory body responsible for supervising spice exports from India, the Spice Board is actively engaged in safeguarding the integrity and quality of spices. In addition to implementing the ban, the Board has reached out to exporters to find the root cause of the issue and propose appropriate measures.

Ethylene oxide, classified as a carcinogenic pesticide, is said to cause lymphoma and leukaemia, among other cancers.

The board, under the commerce ministry, also said it is working with the exporters whose consignments have been recalled in order to find out the root cause and suggest corrective measures.

Thorough inspections at exporter facilities are underway to ensure adherence to regulatory standards, the board said.

The Spices Board has held an industry consultation and put in systems to start mandatory ETO testing in spice consignments destined for Singapore and Hong Kong.

The commerce ministry has also directed Indian embassies in both Singapore and Hong Kong to send a detailed report on the matter.

Besides, the ministry has sought details from the two firms -- MDH and Everest -- whose products have been banned for allegedly containing pesticide 'ethylene oxide' beyond permissible limits.