Authorities launch Valley-wide inspection of eggs amid concerns over ‘toxic residues’

Srinagar: After serious concerns were raised over reports of ‘nitrofuran and nitroimidazole residues’ in eggs, the Food Safety Department on Friday launched a valley-wide inspection drive, collecting samples from both organised and unorganised markets.

The concerns were first raised on Thursday by MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, who took to social media, urging authorities to investigate immediately, trace sources and take strict action against violators.

In a series of tweets, Sadiq said, “Deeply concerned by reports of nitrofuran and nitroimidazole residues being detected in eggs, drugs that are strictly banned in food-producing animals because of their carcinogenic and toxic effects. This issue becomes even more serious because eggs are consumed heavily by children, senior citizens, and patients.”

He added, “Doctors often prescribe eggs as a primary source of protein, making this a direct public-health risk. I urge the Hon Health Minister @sakinaitoo Sahiba and Hon. Food and Supplies Minister @satishsharmajnk Ji and their Department of Food & Supplies and Food Safety authorities to immediately investigate, conduct residue testing across markets, trace the source, and take strict action against violators. For the safety of our people, there can be no compromise. This must be treated with utmost urgency.”

The tweet also referenced a nationwide report titled “Cancer-Causing Eggs by Eggoz? The Lab Report That Sparked a Nationwide Food Safety Panic”.

The Food Safety teams conducted market checks and collected multiple samples for laboratory analysis.

Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety Srinagar, Yameen ul Nabi, told the media, “No physical inspection can confirm contamination. Reports are expected soon, and only then can the situation be clarified. Consumers are urged not to panic until results are officially released.”

He said the department is continuing inspections across supermarkets and local markets, and any product found will be immediately sampled in accordance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Representing traders, Tariq Ahmad, who deals with eggs and is part of a larger traders’ group, told the media at Srinagar Mandi, “We fully support the department’s drive. We want complete transparency. Results should be made public. Our families consume these products too. Any issue must be clarified after sampling.”

Meanwhile, officials from the Food Safety Department assured the public that monitoring and testing will continue, stressing that consumer safety remains the top priority. (KNO)