Indian Masala brands you might want to consider for alternatives!

Recently, the Centre For Food Safety detected a cancer-causing pesticide called ethylene oxide exceeding permissible limits in Indian spice brands such as MDH and Everest. This discovery raises concerns as ethylene oxide is not authorized for use in food and is typically used to fumigate agricultural products to prevent microbial contamination. Interestingly, under Singapore’s Food Regulations, ethylene oxide is allowed for the sterilization of spices. The CFFS collected samples from these brands in Singapore as part of their routine surveillance programs and detected the presence of this carcinogenic pesticide. Ethylene oxide is classified as a stage 1 carcinogen and prolonged consumption may activate cancer-causing agents, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Specifically, three products—Madras Curry Powder, Sambhar Masala Powder, and Curry Powder from MDH, as well as Fish Curry Masala from Everest—were found to contain this pesticide. While ethylene oxide is permitted in certain food items within acceptable limits, its long-term consumption raises health concerns. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has announced its intention to investigate the matter and monitor these brands. In the meantime, exploring alternative Indian masala brands may be advisable.

1. Spiced Right

Spiced Right claims to use no preservatives or only natural sweeteners in making their blended spices and masalas. Their blended mixes like Pani Puri Masala, Bombay Bhel Puri Masala Combo, Purani Dilli Chole Masala and others are a part of their product portfolio. The best part about their website is that they have mentioned the methods to use all the spices. 

2. Table Spoon 

This brand says that all their products are made in a traditional pounding mill, the Kandap which helps retain maximum flavour and volatile oil and no other preservatives are used in the blends. Some of their products are Mumbai Pav Bhaji Masala, Tandoori Tikka Masala, Madras Sambar Masala, Molagapodi (Dry Chutney Powder) and others. 

3. Zoof Foods 

Zoof Foods is another brand that claims to offer organic masalas or spiced combos. They have Sambhar Masala, Kitchen King Masala, Chaat Masala, Garam Masala and more in their catalogue. Some of their spices have citric acid as a preservative.

4. Aazol 

Aazol serves homegrown masalas from Maharashtra. As mentioned by them, they source authentic traditionally made products from SHGs and women micro-entrepreneurs. Their offerings consist of Kala (All-purpose) Masala, Goda Masala: Fragrant Vegetarian Masala, Ghati Masala: Spicy All-purpose Masala and more.

5. Urban Platter 

The brand claims its products are free from artificial additives and are a wholesome option for health-conscious consumers. Vegetable Bouillon and Broth Powder, Zaatar Powder, Hyderabadi Biryani Masala and Bombay Curry Powder are some of the spice mixes to look out for. 

6. The Flavour Trail 

The Flavour Trails is an organic blended masala brand. As mentioned by them, their spice blends are pesticide-free, sustainably farmed, hygienically processed and steam-sterilized. You can check out their Achari Gosht Masala, Amritsari Chole Masala, Bombay Cutting Chai Masala, Fiery Peri Peri Masala and more. 

7. Herbal Platter

Herbal Platter claims that their products are free from artificial preservatives, additives, or MSG. Their Biryani Masala, Chole Masala, Dabeli Masala and more are a part of their offerings. 

8. Rooted Peepul 

This brand claims its products are made with 100% natural ingredients and come with no added or artificial flavours. Some of their spice blends are Mummy Wala Khichdi Masala, Chatkaari Achaari Masala, Smoked Tandoori Dal Masala, Amritsari Bharwan Paratha Masala and others.