India is known as the land of spices, with exports reaching kitchens across the world. But in recent times, news headlines have raised concern around Indian spices being banned in certain countries due to chemical residues or health regulations.
In this article, we’ll explore the truth about Indian spices banned, which brands are affected, and whether Indian spices are safe for consumption.
🧂 Why Are Some Indian Spices Getting Banned?
The core reason lies in chemical contamination, especially a compound called ethylene oxide (EtO).
Ethylene oxide is a fumigant used to sterilize spices and kill bacteria. However, this chemical is banned in food items in the European Union, UK, and Singapore, and exceeding limits can lead to food product recalls or bans.
🚫 Recent Cases of Indian Spices Being Banned or Recalled
- April 2024 – Hong Kong & Singapore
Both countries flagged MDH and Everest branded spices for containing excessive ethylene oxide, leading to temporary bans. - MDH Curry Powder & Everest Fish Curry Masala
- Banned temporarily in Singapore and Hong Kong
- Investigation by Food Safety Authority ongoing
- FDA Alerts
The US FDA and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have issued cautionary reports on select batches, but no blanket bans.
💡 Important: Not all Indian spices are banned. Only specific batches from certain brands failed to meet safety standards.
🛑 Is 111 Masala Banned?
As of now, there is no official report of 111 Masala being banned in India or globally.
But due to the current spotlight on Indian spice safety, many smaller and unregulated brands are under extra scrutiny.
📉 Impact on Indian Export Industry
- India exports spices to over 180 countries
- A ban or alert can cause massive damage to the trust and market of Indian brands
- Spices like turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala are under increasing checks
📌 Are Spices from India Safe to Eat?
In general, yes – Indian spices are safe to consume if:
- You buy from certified and reputed brands
- The packaging is FSSAI-approved and sealed
- Avoid buying loose or unbranded spices which may not follow food safety guidelines
🧾 What is Ethylene Oxide and Why is it Used in Spices?
Ethylene oxide is a sterilizing agent used to eliminate microbes like Salmonella from spices.
While it’s approved in the US in limited quantities, it’s banned for food use in the EU and Singapore because of its potential carcinogenic risks.
📥 People Also Ask (FAQs)
🔹 Is 111 masala banned?
No. As of April 2025, there is no official ban on 111 Masala. Only specific batches of MDH and Everest were under scrutiny for ethylene oxide residues.
🔹 What are the lost (or list) of Indian spices?
India has over 40 commonly used spices, including turmeric (haldi), cumin (jeera), chili (mirch), asafoetida (hing), coriander (dhaniya), and more. You can find a full list on our Indian Spices Guide Post.
🔹 Are spices from India safe to eat?
Yes, if sourced from certified brands, Indian spices are safe. Always check for FSSAI logo, expiry date, and packaging quality.
🔹 कोणत्या मसाल्यांवर बंदी घालण्यात आली?
सध्या एमडीएच आणि एव्हरेस्ट या ब्रँडच्या काही मसाल्यांच्या बॅचवर सिंगापूर व हाँगकाँग मध्ये बंदी घालण्यात आली आहे. संपूर्ण ब्रँडवर बंदी नाही.
🔹 भारतातील मसाले खाण्यास सुरक्षित आहेत का?
होय. सरकारी मान्यता मिळालेल्या आणि ब्रँडेड मसाले सुरक्षित असतात. स्थानिक आणि अज्ञात कंपन्यांचे ढीले मसाले टाळावेत.
🔍 How to Stay Safe While Buying Indian Spices?
- ✅ Buy only from trusted supermarkets or online stores
- ✅ Check expiry dates and packaging seals
- ✅ Read labels for certifications like FSSAI, USDA Organic
- ✅ Store in air-tight containers away from moisture
🎯 Conclusion: Should You Worry About Indian Spices Being Banned?
The news about Indian spices being banned applies only to a few batches, not the whole industry. India remains a global spice leader. Stay informed, check labels, and you’ll enjoy the same rich, flavorful spices India is known for.
