In a recent investigation into prominent Indian spice companies, concerning findings have emerged regarding the quality of their products, raising alarms worldwide.
Major Indian spice brands have faced a significant setback as the European Union's Food Safety Authority issued a comprehensive ban on their products due to quality issues. The presence of cancer-causing ethylene oxide in Indian spices has prompted this stringent action.
The ban extends beyond the EU, with Singapore and Hong Kong also enforcing prohibitions on popular Indian spices, citing similar health concerns.
Despite repeated warnings and a global reputation tarnished by substandard products, the Modi govt in India remained unmoved until recently. It's reported that over the past four years alone, more than 500 Indian spices have been banned by the European Union's Food Safety Authority.
In addition to spices, a range of other Indian food products, including nuts, dry fruits, and herbs, have been deemed below par on the global stage.
The issue extends beyond food items, as Indian pharmaceutical companies have also faced controversy internationally. Tragic incidents, such as the deaths of African children due to contaminated Indian cough syrup, highlight the severity of the situation.
Meanwhile, critics accuse the Modi govt of neglecting pressing health concerns in favor of political agendas. Allegations suggest a focus on stoking religious tensions rather than addressing the root causes of these health hazards.