MFDA Prohibits Sale of Indian Curry Powder Brands Over Health Risks

Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has taken decisive action by prohibiting the importation and sale of two well-known Indian curry powder brands due to health concerns.

The banned brands, Everest and MDH, have been at the centre of scrutiny following a warning issued by Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety (CFS) on April 5. CFS urged consumers to cease consumption of specific products from these brands after detecting traces of ethylene oxide, a pesticide, in various prepackaged spice mix products.

In a public advisory, MFDA echoed CFS’s concerns, highlighting the potential health risks associated with ethylene oxide exposure. This chemical, commonly used as a pesticide and sterilising agent, is classified as carcinogenic, posing significant health hazards to consumers.

The decision to ban these products aligns with global efforts to ensure food safety standards. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also initiated investigations into the affected brands, underscoring the international scope of this issue.

Given the popularity of Everest and MDH curry powder products, both locally and globally, the MFDA is actively engaged in identifying and mitigating any potential risks posed by these products within the Maldives. The authority urges consumers to refrain from using these banned products and advises traders to cease selling them immediately to safeguard public health.