The Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong has issued a notification on the recall of a popular Everest Fish Curry Masala from India due to the presence of ethylene oxide at levels exceeding permissible limit, Singapore's Food Agency said.

Singapore's Food Agency directed the importer of the spice in the country to recall the product.

"As the implicated products were imported into Singapore, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has directed the importer, Sp Muthiah & Sons Pte. Ltd., to recall the products. The recall is ongoing,"  Singapore's Food Agency said in a statement.

"Ethylene oxide is a pesticide that is not authorised for use in food. It can be used to fumigate agricultural products to prevent microbial contamination. Under Singapore’s Food Regulations, ethylene oxide is allowed to be used in the sterilisation of spices," the statement said.

The Singaporean food body said although there is no immediate risk to consumption of food contaminated with low levels of ethylene oxide, long term exposure may lead to health issues.

"Therefore, exposure to this substance should be minimised as much as possible. Consumers who have purchased the implicated products are advised not to consume it. Those who have consumed the implicated products and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice. Consumers may contact their point of purchase for enquiries," the food body said.