In a statement to Reuters, the regulator, New Zealand Food Safety, said it was aware of the overseas recall.
“Ethylene oxide is a chemical that causes cancer in humans, and its use to disinfect food has been discontinued in New Zealand and other countries. Since MDH and Everest Spices are also available in New Zealand, we are looking into this issue,” said Jenny Bishop, the regulator's acting deputy director general.
MDH and Everest did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment. They have stated that their products are safe for consumption.