Hong Kong this month suspended sales of three MDH spice blends and an Everest spice mix for fish curries. Singapore has also ordered a recall of the Everest spice mix and advised against its consumption.

In early April, Hong Kong's Centre for Food Safety (CFS) revealed on its website that samples were collected from three retail outlets in Tsim Sha Tsui for routine testing. Results showed the presence of ethylene oxide pesticide. The CFS notified vendors and ordered removal of affected products from shelves.

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) directed the recall of Everest's 'Fish Curry Masala' due to ethylene oxide levels surpassing permitted limits. The importer, Sp Muthiah & Sons, was instructed to retrieve the product. SFA clarified that ethylene oxide, though permitted for spice sterilization, isn't authorized for food use.