NC MLA Sadiq alleges presence of carcinogens in eggs, probe ordered

The Jammu and Kashmir government ordered an inquiry into the alleged adulteration and presence of carcinogens in the eggs after National Conference (NC) MLA Tanvir Sadiq raised the issue on social media, said officials.

Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs minister Satish Sharma asked the Controller, Legal Metrology Department, to examine and verify the issue urgently and submit a report within two days.

In a post on X on Thursday, 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. Doctors often prescribe eggs as a primary source of protein, making this a direct public-health risk. I urge the Health Minister Sakina Itoo and Food and Supplies Minister Satish Sharma 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…,” he added.

Later in the day, the department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs ordered an inquiry and shared the order.

The department said in the order that the ministry took cognizance of the matter after MLA Tanvir Sadiq’s post on X. The order added that the legislator mentioned about carcinogenic and toxic ingredients causing a severe health risk to the public at general.