2024-04-29 04:30:20
Washington: Questions have been raised on the quality of Indian spices. Some varieties of MDH and Everest spices have been banned in Singapore and Hong Kong due to quality concerns. The Commerce Ministry has directed the Indian embassies in Singapore and Hong Kong to send a detailed report on the reasons for the ban. Food safety regulators in Singapore and Hong Kong allege that four masala products from MDH and Everest contain pesticide ‘ethylene oxide’ above permissible limits. Let us understand what ethylene oxide is and how big a danger it is. Ethylene oxide is a chemical used in many industries. This is a cancer-causing chemical that can increase the risk of breast cancer. It can also damage DNA, brain and nervous system in humans. Ethylene oxide is a flammable colorless gas with a sweet odor at room temperature. It is used in making other chemicals. It also works as a disinfectant and sterilizing agent.
How dangerous is ethylene oxide?
According to information written on the website of America’s National Cancer Institute, ethylene oxide’s ability to damage DNA makes it an effective sterilizing agent, but it is also responsible for causing cancer. Ethylene oxide can reach the human body through the respiratory route. Generally, people working in related businesses, consumers of the product, or through environmental exposure can be exposed. Ethylene oxide is extremely explosive and reactive, which is why the equipment used commercially is tightly closed or automatic. This reduces business risk. However, despite these precautions, people living nearby or workers may come in contact due to industrial emissions.
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What kind of problem could there be?
- The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) consider ethylene oxide to be carcinogenic to humans. According to the EPA, short-term exposure to this chemical can affect the human nervous system. This may cause depression or eye irritation. Prolonged exposure can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs. The brain and nervous system may be damaged.
- The EPA says some evidence shows that inhaled exposure to ethylene oxide may increase miscarriages in female workers.
- According to the EPA report, reproductive effects of this gas have been observed in animals, including a decrease in the concentration of their sperm.
- According to the US National Cancer Institute, ethylene oxide can cause lymphoma and leukemia. Apart from this it can cause stomach and breast cancer.