Ethylene Oxide Found in Indian Food Exports Raises Concerns in Europe

Over 500 Indian Food Items Contain Carcinogen, European Union (EU) food safety authorities detected a cancer-causing chemical, ethylene oxide, in 527 food items imported from India between September 2020 and April 2024. The EU restricts the use of ethylene oxide due to health risks.

• Nuts and sesame seeds (313), herbs and spices (60), dietetic foods (48), and other food items (34).
• Organic Label No Guarantee, 54 items labeled organic also contained the chemical.

The EU banned ethylene oxide use in food in 1991. The recent rise in contaminated imports has prompted stricter controls. Exposure to high levels of ethylene oxide can cause nausea, and long-term exposure is linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Indian Authorities Respond, While some contaminated shipments were rejected at the border, others were removed from the market later. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is reportedly testing spices from brands previously banned in other countries for containing ethylene oxide.

This incident highlights the importance of checking food labels for unfamiliar ingredients. By staying informed about potential food safety concerns, consumers can make healthier choices.