Since October 2023, a total of 11 shipments, nearly one-third of all MDH exports categorized as “spices, flavors, and salts,” have been refused due to salmonella contamination. This alarming statistic underscores the severity of the issue, particularly given that all MDH export shipments refused since October 2020 were on grounds of salmonella contamination.
Salmonella, a harmful bacteria commonly found in contaminated foods, can lead to severe stomach infections if consumed. The rise in refusal rates over salmonella contamination raises concerns about hygiene practices throughout the value chain, from harvesting to processing to packaging.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted a physical inspection of MDH’s manufacturing plant in January 2022, during which inadequate sanitary facilities and equipment maintenance were noted. Such deficiencies could contribute to the contamination issues observed in MDH’s export shipments.
In contrast, the refusal rate for Everest Food Products Pvt Ltd, another prominent spice manufacturer, stands at 0.3% in the ongoing US federal fiscal year, primarily over labeling-related violations. However, MDH’s refusal rate far surpasses this figure, indicating a pressing need for remedial action.
The refusal of MDH shipments comes at a time when both Singapore and Hong Kong have taken regulatory measures against certain products from MDH and Everest due to alleged pesticide contamination and high levels of ethylene oxide, respectively.
The FDA guidelines stipulate that refused shipments can either be destroyed or exported out of the US. However, the fate of these shipments post-refusal remains undisclosed by the FDA.
The repercussions of these rejections extend beyond MDH, affecting other Indian spice exporters as well. Ramdev Food Products Private Limited and MTR Foods Private Limited have also faced increased refusal rates over salmonella contamination, highlighting the broader industry challenges in ensuring food safety and regulatory compliance.
As investigations continue and regulatory scrutiny intensifies, stakeholders in the spice industry face mounting pressure to address hygiene and quality control measures to regain consumer trust and ensure compliance with international standards.