Incheon authorities block distribution of five spice products due to pesticide residues

The Incheon Institute of Health and Environment has blocked the distribution of five spice products after testing revealed pesticide residues exceeding safety standards. Between January and September, researchers tested 100 samples of spices and processed goods obtained from large supermarkets and online retailers in the Incheon region.

The non-compliant products included basil, coriander, thyme, and dill. Specific pesticides detected included fluoxametam in basil, flutolanil and terbufos in coriander, metaflumizone and thiamethoxam in thyme, and etofenprox in dill. All detected levels exceeded the Positive List System (PLS) standards set by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.

Authorities have completed the suspension of sales, recall, and disposal of the affected items. Following these results, the institute plans to expand its safety protocols by including aflatoxin testing for spices and dried agricultural products starting in 2027.