The Association for the Protection of the Environment and Consumers (APEC) has raised concerns about spices from the brands MDH PVT and Everest Food Product (Fish Curry powder) originating from India.
In an open letter addressed to the Minister of Trade and Consumer Protection, Dorine Chukowry, the president of the Association, Suttyhudeo Tengur, is calling for these products to be removed from shelves in Mauritius.
According to Tengur, the Indian newspaper the Times of India reported on April 20th that the Singapore Food Agency requested for MDH PVT and Everest Food Product Pvt (Fish Curry powder) to be taken off the market.
The reason being that these Indian products allegedly contain ethylene oxide, a pesticide unfit for consumption.
Tengur stated that these Indian products are exported to over 80 countries worldwide, including Mauritius.
“Therefore, we are making a strong plea to the Minister of Trade for these products to be swiftly removed from sale in shops, supermarkets, and hypermarkets in Mauritius,” said the president.
Furthermore, he mentioned that testing is necessary. The president of APEC explained that ethylene oxide causes eye and respiratory irritation.
Symptoms may include headaches, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion.
“Certainly, in Mauritius, there is no indication that this product consumed by the public has led to such symptoms, but precaution is important as it has been proven by a reputable international laboratory that this product poses a risk to human health.
We hope that the Minister, who is always quick to intervene in the interest of consumers, will act promptly,” he stated.
Source: Defi Media
