India has taken steps to prevent ethylene oxide (EtO) contamination in its spice exports, following recalls of MDH and Everest spices in Singapore and Hong Kong due to EtO residues. Measures include mandatory testing of consignments to these countries, inspections of processing facilities, and sample testing by a techno-scientific committee.

The controversy surrounding Indian spices dates back to 2019 when MDH was criticised after some of its batches of sambhar powder were pulled off the shelves due to salmonella contamination.