FSSAI Dismisses Claims Of Carcinogenic Substances In Eggs

Amid growing concerns over claims of carcinogenic substances in eggs, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) on Saturday firmly stated that eggs available across the country are safe for human consumption.

The food regulator dismissed the allegations as unfounded, calling the claims ‘misleading’ and stating that they lack scientific support and could create unnecessary public alarm.

Several media reports and social media posts in recent days alleged that eggs contained nitrofuran metabolites (AOZ), which are considered carcinogenic, prompting the clarification.

“Producers must strictly avoid using nitrofurans at all stages of poultry and egg production under the Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Regulations, 2011,” FSSAI officials clarified.

The authority explained that it has set an Extraneous Maximum Residue Limit (EMRL) of 1.0 microgram per kg for nitrofuran metabolites solely for regulatory enforcement. This threshold represents the lowest level that advanced laboratory methods can reliably detect and does not permit the substance’s use.

“Detection of trace residues below the EMRL does not constitute a food safety violation nor does it imply any health risk,” an official noted.

FSSAI further underlined that India’s food safety regulations are in line with international norms.

Both the European Union and the United States prohibit the use of nitrofurans in food-producing animals and rely on reference points or guideline values strictly as enforcement tools.

No Proven Link Between Trace Exposure and Cancer

Variations in numerical benchmarks between countries stem from differences in analytical and regulatory frameworks, not from differing safety standards for consumers.

Addressing public health concerns, the authority cited scientific evidence stating that there is no established causal link between trace-level dietary exposure to nitrofuran metabolites and cancer or other adverse health outcomes in humans.

It also reiterated that no national or international health body has linked regular egg consumption with an increased risk of cancer.

Officials responded to reports about testing a specific egg brand, saying that such findings affect only isolated batches. They further added that inadvertent contamination or feed-related factors may cause these instances and that they do not reflect the overall condition of the country’s egg supply chain.

The regulator stated that labelling eggs as unsafe based on isolated laboratory findings is scientifically incorrect.

The FSSAI urged consumers to depend on verified scientific evidence and official advisories, reaffirming that eggs remain a safe, nutritious and valuable component of a balanced diet when produced and consumed in compliance with food safety regulations.

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