Malta’s Thyme Alert: Pesticide Concerns Over Local Spice Packets

Imagine this: You’re in the heart of Malta, strolling down Republic Street in Valletta, the sun warming your face as you pop into Is-Suq Tal-Pietà for some fresh produce. You spot a packet of thyme, a staple in Maltese cuisine, and toss it into your basket. But hold on, that thyme might not be as harmless as it seems.

In an unexpected turn, the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) has issued a health warning over certain packets of thyme. The authority has detected high levels of pesticides in some samples, raising concerns among local health officials and consumers alike.

The MCCAA’s tests revealed the presence of pyriminobac-methyl, a pesticide not approved for use on thyme in the European Union. This particular pesticide has been linked to health issues, including skin and eye irritation, and could potentially cause harm to the nervous system with prolonged exposure.

While the MCCAA has not named the specific brands affected, they have urged consumers to check their packets. If you’ve bought thyme recently, look out for any packets with the following details:

• Product: Thyme
• Packaging: 50g packets
• Best Before Date: Between October 2022 and April 2023

If you find any of these, the MCCAA advises you to stop using the product immediately and return it to the point of sale for a refund.

Thyme is a staple in Maltese cuisine, featuring in traditional dishes like ‘timpani’ and ‘torta tal-marmorata’. The health warning has raised concerns among local chefs and food enthusiasts. Chef Patrick Spiteri, owner of the popular Valletta eatery ‘Noni’, expresses his concern:

“Thyme is a key ingredient in many of our dishes. This warning is a wake-up call. We need to ensure the safety of our customers and the integrity of our local produce.”

The MCCAA has assured the public that they are working closely with retailers and importers to remove any affected packets from shelves. They have also launched an investigation to trace the source of the contaminated thyme.

As we navigate this health scare, it’s a reminder of the importance of vigilance in our food chain. The MCCAA encourages consumers to report any suspected issues with food products. You can reach them at [email protected] or by calling 144.

In the meantime, let’s continue to enjoy our thyme-laden dishes, but with a little extra caution. After all, our health is our greatest ingredient.