Singapore recalls Everest’s fish curry masala over pesticide detection: What can long-term exposure do?

In a move to protect consumers, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), on Thursday, issued a recall for Everest’s fish curry masala, a popular Indian spice brand. The recall was prompted by the detection of ethylene oxide, a pesticide, exceeding safe limits for human consumption.

“As the implicated products were imported into Singapore, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has directed the importer, SP Muthiah & Sons Pte. Ltd., to recall the products. The recall is ongoing,” the SFA statement read.

The SFA further explained that ethylene oxide, while not authorised for use in food itself, is sometimes used to fumigate agricultural products before they become food ingredients. Regulations in Singapore permit its use for sterilising spices. They emphasised that while low levels may not pose an immediate health risk, long-term exposure can be harmful.

However, Dr Pritha Hazra, general practitioner, Department of Wellness, Healthians, pointed to short-term exposure being just as harmful, adding that ethylene oxide is also used in sterilising medical equipment.

“In the short term, individuals may also face respiratory issues, headaches, nausea, vomiting, or cyanosis. However, the priority escalates while considering long-time exposure,” explained Dr Hazra in an interaction with indianexpress.com.

Dr Hazra also said, “Ethylene oxide has been associated with diverse chronic health issues like reproductive problems, neurotoxicity, sensitisation, and mutagenic changes, which could have profound implications on one’s health over the years.”

The SFA further explained that ethylene oxide, while not authorised for use in food itself, is sometimes used to fumigate agricultural products (file)

How pesticides harm our bodies if present in food

Pesticides, designed to ward off unwanted organisms in agriculture, can pose extensive risks to human health if they find their way into our food chain. Even a brief exposure to some of them can cause acute poisoning and symptoms, including diarrhoea, dehydration, and skin irritation, said Dr Hazra.

Some insecticides like Resmethrin, Cypermethrin, and Fenvalerate have been connected to chronic health issues, which include reproductive complications, immune system disruption, pores and skin infection, and interference with the endocrine system. Dr Hazra explained that even low-level exposure over the years can cause critical health implications.

How long-term issues can be combated

There are steps that can be taken to mitigate the risks associated with pesticides and ethylene oxide exposure according to Dr Hazra.

1. It’s critical to prevent the runoff of insecticides into storm drains, which can contaminate water sources.

2. While using insecticides, it’s essential to consider the characteristics of the application site to minimise unintended exposure.

3. Attention to the geological factors and groundwater depth can prevent pesticide seepage into water reservoirs.

By implementing these measures and maintaining strict regulations, we can minimise the health risks posed by these chemical substances.

Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.