Masala, or a mixture of spices, has been part of our daily food since time immemorial, and it’s hard to imagine lip-smacking, savoury food without them. Among the many brands available, Indian products like MDH and Everest are popular in Nepali kitchens. Unfortunately, some of these so-called “kitchen kings” (MDH’s Madras Curry Powder, Sambhar Masala Mixed Masala Powder, Curry Powder Mix Masala Powder and Everest’s Fish Curry Masala) have recently been banned in Hong Kong and Singapore. They have been found contaminated with harmful ethylene oxide (a carcinogenic pesticide) exceeding permissible limits. The presence of carcinogenic in these spices is “unsuitable for human health”, as exposure to it can lead to lymphoma, leukaemia and stomach and breast cancers.

This discovery has upset MDH and Everest masala lovers worldwide, including in India, the largest producer, consumer and exporter of these spices. In response, the country is investigating the underlying cause of the ban, and the Indian food security regulator has ordered a quality check of these products. According to reports, however, the United States Food and Drug Administration found Salmonella, a bacteria that causes diarrhoea, in Everest’s spice mixes in 2023.

Nepal’s Food Technology and Quality Control Department has also pledged to test the masala brands. But Nepal seems to be taking a wait-and-see approach, while Hong Kong and Singapore have already restricted their use. In the recent Post report, the food authority said, “Countries have their own acceptable limits of pesticide use, and if these masala products are found crossing limits set by the department, it will direct authorities concerned to recall the products from the market.” This doesn’t sound convincing enough as the products sold in those countries are available in Nepal too. One wonders what’s stopping our authorities from following their path.

During high-demand times like Dashain and Tihar, not only are these spices consumed in large quantities, but they are also mixed with other substances. Several food manufacturing companies bring high-adulterated products that harm people’s health. Pesticides are rife in fruits and vegetables found in markets. Yet Nepal lacks robust food-standard surveillance and regulatory mechanisms. In February this year, the Agriculture, Cooperatives and Natural Resources Committee of the House of Representatives passed a bill on food purity and quality with strict penalties for manufacturing of adulterated and low-quality foods. The bill, however, will not be of much use if the number of food testing labs and inspectors who can investigate the matter are not increased, as experts suggest.

Now is the time to push for public health and safety by taking proactive measures. As the consumer rights activists have pointed out, Nepal should follow in the footsteps of Hong Kong and Singapore and recall tainted spices from the market before it is too late. People should also be made aware of the health risks associated with these spices and taught proper food-handling practices. This can also be an opportunity to push local masala producers to bring out quality products—or face the consequences. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring quality of their products and adhering to international food standards and norms. What we need. A safer food system that prioritises the well-being of consumers is the need of the hour.