US food regulator gathering information on Indian spices after alleged contamination

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is gathering information on products of Indian spice makers MDH and Everest after Hong Kong halted sales of some of their products for allegedly containing high levels of a cancer-causing pesticide.

"The FDA is aware of the reports and is gathering additional information about the situation," an FDA spokesperson told Reuters on Friday.

Hong Kong this month suspended sales of three MDH spice blends and an Everest spice mix for fish curries. Singapore ordered a recall of the Everest spice mix, saying it contains high levels of ethylene oxide, which is unfit for human consumption and a cancer risk with long exposure.

MDH and Everest did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment. Everest has said its spices are safe for consumption. MDH has not responded so far.

MDH and Everest spices, which are among the most popular names in India and are also sold in Europe, Asia and North America, are also under the Indian regulator's scanner for quality standards, following Hong Kong and Singapore's moves.