A chemical used to sterilize medical equipment is now allowed on dried spices

US environmental regulators now allow a chemical called propylene oxide to be present on certain dried foods. This chemical, often used to sterilize medical equipment, can now be found on things like dried ginger, turmeric, and peppers.

Food processors can now use propylene oxide on specific dried spices and seeds without violating residue limits. This chemical is known for sterilizing medical equipment and reducing microbes in food. This could make processing these foods cheaper or extend their shelf life, but it also means consumers will ingest residues of a chemical with industrial uses.