Culinary Crisis: Unveiling the Toxic Truth Behind MDH, EVEREST, and NESTLE's Products

Last week, three major Indian companies were accused of selling products that not only harm children’s health but also cause cancer in humans. The companies are MDH, EVEREST, and NESTLE.

How are MDH and EVEREST affecting our health?

MDH and Everest’s spices contain ETHYLENE OXIDE, a highly toxic pesticide that can cause cancer in our bodies. ETHYLENE OXIDE is a colorless, flammable, highly reactive, toxic, gaseous organic compound that smells slightly sweet. It is used to stop microbes like Salmonella and E. coli from spreading and to lower the number of bacteria, yeast, coliforms, and pathogens. Controls pests, particularly in delicate products such as herbs, spices, and seeds. It’s also used to sterilise.

Nestle’s Baby Food Scandal

Nestle’s food products for children contain added sugar, which can be harmful to young children. Dr. Ambrish Mittal, a senior doctor at Max Healthcare, claims that such companies are to blame for the obesity epidemic among Indian children. This is a very serious issue because these three brands are not small ones that a sizable number of Indians use; the number is not in thousands, not lakhs, but in crores; in fact, the sales of these companies have exceeded Rs. 2000 crores in recent years.

Double Standards Exposed of Nestle

The most alarming fact is that Nestle’s goods marketed in the United States and Europe were determined to be normal, but when sold in developing nations such as India and certain developing countries, they included additional sugar. ‘Nestle believes that the health and well-being of Indian children are less essential than those of youngsters in European nations.

The Function of the Indian Government in Corporate Scandals

One question that comes to mind is: What did the Indian government do about this? Because every story that came in about NESTLE, MDH, or EVEREST spices came from outside of Malaysia. The news about Nestle came from Switzerland, and the news about Everest and MDH spices came from Hong Kong. It’s odd that a week after Nestle’s news came out, another story came out saying that Nestle’s earnings in India rose by 21% in the first quarter. This might make you wonder how serious this claim is. Do you need to stop using these things and the spices? Was the Indian government so sleepy that they missed this trouble earlier? Why do these businesses take advantage of our country? First, let’s talk about MDH and Everest spices. Then I’ll tell you everything. Please remember to share the story with your family and friends if it helps you understand a very important issue our country is facing.

Exposing Harmful Contamination: Issues with Indian Spice Samples

In a news release on April 5, 2024, the Hong Kong Center for Food Safety claimed that, as part of their food surveillance program, they had taken samples of spices from three various Tsim Sha Tsui retail establishments. ETHYLENE OXIDE, which is classified as a category 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, was discovered to be present in these samples for this pesticide. When we say that something is a Group 1 carcinogen, we mean that we have evidence that it causes cancer. The agency stated that ethylene oxide has the potential to cause lymphoid cancer and breast cancer in women. MDH’s Madras Curry Masala, Sambar Masala, Curry Powder Masala, and Everest’s Fish Curry Masala were the spices that included ETHYLENE OXIDE. Now would be a good time to find out which spices had this ingredient. This was followed by a statement from the Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong, which said that no one is permitted to use them, nor is anybody permitted to sell them. Within a few days of Hong Kong, the Singapore Food Agency issued a press release stating that they discovered ethylene oxide in Everest’s Fish Curry Masala, which is not something that should be used in food. They also stated in their press release that although consuming ethylene oxide in our food does not immediately cause any problems, it can cause cancer if it is consumed over a prolonged period of time. Because of this, we should ensure that our food does not include any ethylene oxide. When the temperature is at room temperature, ethylene oxide is in the form of a gas. This gas is employed in the production of chemicals such as antifreeze,

which is mostly used in automobiles as an engine coolant. At cold temperatures, it is added to automobile engines to prevent the engines from freezing. Additionally, this gas is used in the production of insecticides and sterilization, although in very minute amounts. It is referred to as sterilization when microorganisms are eliminated. It is also used in hospitals to sterilize medical equipment, and it is also used in spices to ensure that they do not cause infections such as Salmonella or E. coli. According to Singapore’s Food Regulation, ethylene oxide may be used to sterilize spices up to a certain point, although there are restrictions on its usage. At this time, it is absolutely prohibited throughout Europe. Ethylene oxide, when used in tiny amounts, does not create immediate problems, but when used over a prolonged period of time, it may lead to the development of cancer. This is something that I have mentioned in the post previously.

Everest company statement after Blames

Rajiv Shah, who is the director of Everest Food Products, stated that only one product out of sixty has been tested, and that product was found to be safe to use. As a result, there is no need for anyone to be concerned about Everest products. When the news started to circulate in the media, the Everest Food Company issued this statement. The statement stated that there is nothing to worry about and that all these products are safe to use. The Indian Spices Board, a body under the Ministry of Commerce, has asked both MDH and Everest Masalas to provide details about the quality inspections they conduct on the spices.

A.B. Rema Shree, the director of the Spices Board of India, said that we are conducting an investigation into the situation. In addition to this, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) stated that we are doing quality checks on MDH and Everest Masalas. There are millions of people in India that use these goods on a regular basis while they are preparing their meals, which is why this is a very important problem that has to be addressed.

Nestle’s Baby Products Under Scrutiny: Concerns Over Added Sugar and Labeling

In a recent revelation that sent shockwaves across the nation, concerns have been raised regarding Nestle’s baby products in India. Cerelac and Nido, the flagship baby food brands of Nestle, have come under scrutiny, raising questions about the company’s commitment to infant health and nutritional standards.

Cerelac, an instant cereal brand targeted at children between 6 to 24 months of age, boasts convenience and nutrition. Marketed as an easy-to-prepare meal option, Cerelac offers a range of varieties, from rice to wheat to oats. Nido, another popular product, is powdered milk aimed at providing essential nutrients for growing infants.

Nestle’s promotional materials emphasize the nutritional benefits of Cerelac and Nido, claiming to support healthy growth, immune system strengthening, and brain development in babies. However, recent investigations by prominent NGOs have uncovered unsettling truths.

Public Eye, a Swiss NGO known for investigating corporate practices, along with the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN), released a detailed report on Nestle’s baby food products. Their findings revealed alarming statistics: out of 115 products tested, a staggering 94% contained added sugar deliberately introduced by Nestle.

This revelation raises serious questions about Nestle’s commitment to infant health, particularly considering the potential risks associated with added sugar consumption in babies. The discrepancy between Nestle’s marketing claims and the actual contents of their products has sparked outrage and demands for accountability.

Furthermore, the report highlighted Nestle’s double standards in different markets. While products sold in Europe boast minimal added sugar or none at all, those marketed in countries like India contain significant amounts. This inconsistency in labelling and formulation has drawn criticism from experts and consumers alike.

The implications of Nestle’s actions extend beyond mere regulatory compliance. By misleading consumers about the contents of their products, especially those intended for vulnerable infants, Nestle jeopardises trust and undermines public health efforts.

The debate surrounding Nestle’s baby products underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in the food industry. As consumers, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and demand honesty and integrity from companies responsible for our health and well-being.

The Hidden Dangers of Added Sugar

You may be wondering what the problem is with adding sugar to food. The fact that medical professionals have made it very obvious that additional sugar may be harmful to young children is the most important factor. Dr. Pradeep Chaubey was taken aback when Jatin Jain, who was 13 years old at the time, arrived at Max Hospital in a wheelchair in the year 2015.He said that Jatin had a very high mass index. Due to the fact that his face was very fluffy, he was unable to stand and was unable to open his eyes. Jatin’s body mass index was 92, and he weighed 230 kg. On the other hand, the World Health Organization suggests that Jatin’s body mass index (BMI) should ideally be 25.Jatin has been referred to as the heaviest adolescent in the world in a number of news articles. At this point, you may be wondering what the connection is between the Cerelac case and the one involving Jatin. This is a pretty strong connection. Due to the fact that the groundwork for obesity is laid throughout infancy, children, according to doctors’ reports, develop an addiction to added sugar throughout their youth and consume their meals at a rapid pace. Because of this, the tasks that parents have to do are simplified, and they are persuaded to work with these brands.

Effects of Sugar on Babies

After a number of experiments, it has been shown that the addiction to added sugar is comparable to other addictions. This is due to the fact that when we consume sugar, our bodies produce a hormone known as dopamine, which is also referred to as a pleasure hormone. Consuming sugar makes us feel good, and the same hormone, dopamine, is responsible for the pleasure that individuals experience when they smoke cigarettes or use any other drugs. The same mechanism is also responsible for sugar addiction. This sugar addiction is most often seen in youngsters, who are particularly sensitive to it. The greater the amount of sugar that is given to youngsters, the greater the tolerance that develops in their bodies. Therefore, in order for youngsters to experience the same rush of dopamine, they begin to consume more sugar. This is the reason why children like consuming sweet food items such as chocolates, candies, and other similar foods. This is a pattern that I believe a lot of children find themselves locked in. They start eating foods that are higher in sugar calories but have no nutrients, and they avoid eating vegetables, which contain no sugar and a greater number of nutrients without consuming any sugar. It is for this reason that when you feed sugar to youngsters, they do not only get hooked on it, but it also develops their tolerance for it. I am attempting to convey that, for the same reason that dopamine affects youngsters, they begin consuming more sweets and also develop problems such as obesity.2.1% of children under the age of 5 are overweight, and the Indian government’s National Family Health Survey from 2015 predicts that number will increase to 3.4% over the following four years.

According to Dr. Arjan De Wagt, who serves as the head of nutrition for the United Nations Children’s Fund in India, childhood obesity is a significant issue in India. He explains that since the problem begins in childhood, it is the reason why obese children continue to be obese even after they have grown up. On the one hand, there are crores of children in India who are struggling with the issue of being overweight, and on the other hand, there are 36 percent of children under the age of five who do not have enough food to eat. What a peculiar reality India has!

Type 2 Diabetes Strikes Indian Children

The consequences of being overweight include not only obesity but also diabetes. Diabetes, which was previously only found in people over the age of 30–40, is now found in children as young as 9–10 years old and is known as type 2 diabetes. It is shocking to learn that type 2 diabetes is very common in Indian children today. For example, Sachin Sethi was only 9 years old when he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. In an interview, he said that he enjoys eating but is quite unhappy since he is only permitted to eat vegetables owing to type 2 diabetes. Imagine being 9 years old and having to travel to the hospital every day for treatment and to check for type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Brij Makkar, an obesity expert who has conducted extensive studies on diabetes, believes that obesity is a key reason why children in India are suffering from type 2 diabetes. This is why physicians advise youngsters not to consume foods with added sugar. According to physicians, nutrients should be provided via mother’s milk or baby formula; these are the finest methods to feed little children. Because the youngster will get all of the nutrients while avoiding extra sugar. Mother’s milk is naturally delicious, and the infant will get all of the required nutrients, which are beneficial to the child’s vitality. If a youngster is fed sugar in excess of the recommended amount, it might lead to health issues. WHO has also said unequivocally that children under the age of 12 months should not be fed additional sugar. The 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, which included numerous experts from all over the world, made the same point very explicitly. This is why physicians recommend that children not be fed honey since their digestive systems are not evolved enough to combat germs that might cause newborn botulism.

Unveiling the Truth: Nestle and the Unchecked Food Industry

So, after so many charges against Nestle, Nestle must have been shocked. But the answer is “no.” Nestle declined to address questions about why it had separate standards from India and other nations. In a study, they indicated that they had decreased the amount of added sugar in children’s meals by 11% and are working to reduce it further. Nestle’s Indian team responded that they have decreased added sugar by 30% over the previous five years. However, no explanation was offered as to why extra sugar is being added to children’s food items. Instead, they said that they are adhering to all of the laws and regulations established by the Indian government. So, the question here is whether Nestle followed all of the restrictions issued by the Indian government, yes or no. The answer is yes; they followed.

This is a dilemma for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Take a look at the rules; they indicate that sucrose or fructose should not be introduced; however, it may be supplied as a carbohydrate source up to 20%. Now, sucrose is the sugar found in our homes, but fructose is found naturally in fruits and honey. Now, according to our government laws, addition is banned, but if done in moderation, it is OK. If you look at the Cerelac components list, you’ll see that 8.9 grams of sucrose, or sugar we use at home, account for 13% of the total carbohydrate, which is less than 20%, indicating that Cerelac complies with Indian standards. So why is there so much commotion about this topic all across the globe, and why are these queries popping up on social media? It is because many physicians believe that no added sugar should be used in infant goods. Dr. Ambrish Mittal stated the same thing, but the Food Safety Authority of India, which is a government agency under the Ministry of Health, states that a little amount of added sugar is OK. Many businesses take advantage of these rules.

For example, Bournvita has been marketing its product for many years and describes it as a health drink. And, last year, the Food Authority stated that there is no official label for a health drink after a food influencer, FOODPHARMER, posted many videos regarding the subject. The Food Safety Authority of India has not taken any action against Bournvita, which has been selling sugar to children under the guise of a health drink for many years, despite numerous videos and articles posted on social media and written by bloggers. Just because of this, the CAG has reprimanded the Food Safety Authority of India, which is not unusual. In 2017, CAG published a thorough study stating that our Food Safety Authority renewed the licenses of several corporations while knowing that these goods were harmful. Many times, new licenses have been granted without adequate paperwork. And our health minister continues to assert that our country’s Food Safety Authority is doing a fantastic job. Because the agency is not performing its task effectively, the people of India have taken on the responsibility of verifying the items. For example, doctors from Rajagiri Hospital (Kerala) conducted research with a US-based technology entrepreneur, testing 36 protein supplements in India and discovering that 70% of protein powder was mislabeled, 14% contained toxins, and 8% contained pesticide residue.

As a result, the people of India are conducting the tests that the Food Safety Authority of the Indian government should have been performing. This is the scenario in India; many firms treat the country as if it were a trash can. Nestlé is not the only corporation. A documentary called Global Junk Food, which was released 5 years ago, showed a comparison of fast-food products sold in other countries and in India, and what they showed was a real disgrace for India. McDonald’s McChicken sandwich, which is sold in India, has 2.5 times more sugar than the same sandwich sold in France; Filet-o-Fish has double the saturated fat; and the same is true for McNuggets. Let’s speak about KFC. The French fries sold in India have ten times more salt than the French fries sold in France, while the chicken wings have three times more fat in India.

Revant Himatsingka, a prominent influencer known as Foodpharmer, also discussed Lay’s and other chocolate brands. It’s very easy to deceive consumers; we all know that there is a nutrition label behind every food packet, but the question is how many of us actually read it and how many of us are capable of reading it properly. I know there is a nutrition facts label behind every packet, but tell me how many of us know what trans fats are, and this is true for the majority of people in India. A poll performed in 2023 revealed that more than 70% of Indians are unaware of what unhealthy fat is. We don’t know whether unsaturated fats found in almonds or salmon are beneficial, whereas saturated fats found in butter or cooking oil are detrimental. Most firms strive to deceive us. For example, Nido, a Nestle Brand product, claims that there is no added sucrose or sugar in the cereal. The problem is that they fool us by claiming that there is no added sugar but just honey and fruit sugar, known as fructose. This is where the difficulty begins: there are numerous names for added sugar. It’s not only added sugar; cooking oil, or palm oil, also has various names on nutrition labels. Now, if the confusion is purposefully manufactured, how would a simple guy like me and you determine what is and is not appropriate to eat? And one thing we constantly forget is that some individuals earn thousands or crores of rupees solely to trick and persuade us to keep buying their unhealthy food goods by performing in advertising for these brands. A recent study found that when we hear a crunching sound, our brain sends a signal that we are hungry and that the food will be extremely tasty. This is why many companies try to engineer the sound of their food products, and in their advertisements, they use human psychology to persuade us to buy their products. This is also why their packaging is so bright, because research has shown that the brighter the packaging, the more likely consumers are to buy it.

Conclusion

As previously noted in the article, there is more than one reason why obesity, cancer, and other health issues are on the rise in India. Exercise and stress management are critical aspects of our everyday lives. But, when it comes to food, one thing that our Indian government Food Authority must do is maintain control over the labels that appear on every food product, so that these firms do not continue to deceive or mislead us with their labels. It could be the excuse of added sugar or unhealthy fats, and especially with the food products that are made for children. We will have to stand together against these companies for the future of our country, so please, when any politician comes to ask for votes at your doorsteps, ask them what you are doing to stop these companies from playing with the health of our children, and please raise your voice on social media. If you can’t do much, at least share the article.