Explained: What is Ethylene Oxide, why is it used and regulatory guidelines on it

Ethylene Oxide (EtO) is a fossil fuel byproduct, is a highly reactive compound that has not only been found to be carcinogenic but can also be mutagenic if inhaled (Representative image)

After Hong Kong and Singapore banned the sale of certain products from popular Indian spice brands MDH and Everest Group, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has decided to conduct comprehensive quality checks. Nepal has also decided to test samples of products of the popular Indian spice brands. The products of the spice brands were banned over concerns of containing traces of cancer-causing ‘Ethylene Oxide’.

What is Ethylene Oxide (EtO)?

EtO, a fossil fuel byproduct, has multiple industrial uses, including fumigation of spices. It is a highly reactive compound that has not only been found to be carcinogenic but can also be mutagenic if inhaled. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has declared it a Group 1 carcinogen, while the European Union has declared it a category 1B carcinogen and 1B mutagen.

Why is it used by the food industry?

Ethylene oxide is a food fumigant that prevents microbial contamination, including bacteria, virus, and fungi. When used in permissible limits, it can aid in preventing the spread of foodborne illnesses and also give dried foods a longer shelf life. The spice industry uses EtO to arrest the growth of disease-causing microbes such as Salmonella and E coli. The same DNA damaging property of Ethylene Oxide that helps sterilise foods, can, however, also cause cancer.

What are the food safety regulations surrounding EtO use?

In the United States, EtO use in foods is allowed, but regulated. In India, the FSSAI prohibits its use in any food product. In the EU, the use of ethylene oxide as a food fumigant has been banned since 1991. In 2023, the European Commission termed the compound a “pesticide residue” instead of “fumigant”. According to a report published by Food Safety News in January 2024, the EC has adjusted the level of official controls on imported foods, with inspections for EtO on some Indian imports being relaxed to 30 percent of consignments from the earlier 50 percent. Notably, these rules are reportedly revised every six months.