FSSAI investigating Ethylene Oxide: 24 April 2024

About Ethylene Oxide:

• Classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, ethylene oxide is a pesticide used by the spice industry to reduce microbial contamination.
• It is a colourless, highly flammable, and reactive gas known for its bactericidal properties.

Health Implications:

• Ethylene oxide can damage DNA during sterilization procedures, posing a risk of cancer and other health issues.
• Chronic exposure, even at low levels, can increase the risk of cancers like leukemia, stomach cancer, and breast cancer, along with respiratory and gastrointestinal issues.

Bans on Ethylene Oxide:

• The European Union (EU) banned ethylene oxide for fumigation of food and animal feed in 2011, permitting its use only for disinfection and sterilization of medical devices.

Why in news

• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is investigating the presence of cancer-causing chemicals in powdered spice mixes sold in India.
• Hong Kong and Singapore withdrew spice mixes from Indian manufacturers, MDH and Everest, due to high levels of the carcinogen ethylene oxide.