Govt orders probe into presence of banned drug residues in eggs

Srinagar, Dec 11: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered an urgent investigation into reports of adulterated eggs being sold in markets after National Conference MLA Tanvir Sadiq warned of the presence of carcinogenic drug residues in eggs consumed across the region.
In a formal communication issued by the Personal Section of the Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), the department has directed concerned authorities to “examine/verify the issue urgently and submit a report within two days” amid rising public-health concerns.
The directive follows Sadiq’s warning that nitrofuran and nitroimidazole residues—drugs banned in food-producing animals because of their carcinogenic and toxic properties—may have been detected in eggs available in local markets. He according said the matter poses a “serious public-health threat” since eggs are widely consumed by children, elderly people, and patients, and remain a primary protein source recommended by doctors.
The MLA urged both the Health Minister and the FCS&CA Minister to immediately conduct residue tests across markets, identify the supply chains from where such eggs have entered the Valley, and initiate strict legal action against violators.
Acting on the alert, the FCS&CA Minister assigned the Legal Metrology Department to verify the claims and submit its findings at the earliest. The probe is expected to include market inspections, sample collection, laboratory testing, and tracing of distribution networks.
Officials said that strict action will be taken if the presence of banned substances is confirmed. (KINS)