The Singaporean regulatory authorities have issued a recall for Everest‘s Fish Curry Masala, a well-known product in India, citing the detection of ethylene oxide, a pesticide, in levels surpassing the permissible threshold.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) instructed Sp Muthiah and Sons Pvt Ltd, the importer, to commence the recall process.
The SFA stated that ethylene oxide, commonly used to fumigate agricultural products to prevent microbial contamination, is not approved for use in food.
“According to Singapore’s Food Rules and Regulations, ethylene oxide has been permitted to be used in the sterilisation of spices,” the Singapore Food Authority (SFA) said.
Although the agency acknowledged that immediate consumption of food containing low levels of ethylene oxide does not pose an immediate threat, prolonged exposure could result in health complications.
The SFA stressed, “While there is no immediate risk to consuming the food, it’s crucial to minimize exposure to this substance as much as possible.”
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“It is strongly urged that consumers who have purchased the contaminated items not consume them. In addition, anyone who have eaten the tainted items and are concerned about their health are advised to consult a doctor,” the advice stated.
As of now, Everest, the manufacturer, has not provided any response to this development.