How dangerous is nitrofuran found in eggs, what diseases can it cause?

Are Eggs Safe To Eat In India: In this age of social media, people post anything to gain popularity. However, sometimes when these posts are related to one’s health, the line is crossed. Recently, social media posts claimed that (…)

Are Eggs Safe To Eat In India: In this age of social media, people post anything to gain popularity. However, sometimes when these posts are related to one’s health, the line is crossed. Recently, social media posts claimed that a banned chemical called nitrofuran was found in the eggs. People attributed it to cancer. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has strongly rejected claims linking eggs to cancer. FSSAI has clearly stated in its report that eggs sold in India are completely safe and recent reports and social media posts are scientifically baseless and spread unnecessary fear.

The use of nitrofuran is completely prohibited

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has also clarified concerns regarding nitrofuran metabolites. These are trace markers that can be found in eggs if banned nitrofuran antibiotics are used illegally in poultry farming. According to FSSAI, the use of nitrofuran at all stages of poultry and egg production is strictly prohibited under India’s food safety regulations. Therefore, claims that eggs contain carcinogens are misleading.

The FSSAI said that the maximum residue limit of 1.0 micrograms per kilogram for nitrofuran metabolites is only a regulatory limit for detection, not a presumptive quantity. Presence below the EMRL is neither considered a food safety violation nor poses a health risk.

FSSAI also said that India’s norms are in line with global norms. The European Union and the United States also ban nitrofuran, and such reference standards are used only for enforcement purposes, not to set safety limits. Differences in data between countries are due to testing techniques, not differences in safety standards.

Does it cause cancer?

From a public health perspective, the FSSAI clarified that there is no causal relationship between dietary intake of very low levels of nitrofuran metabolites and cancer. No World Health Organization has linked regular egg consumption to an increased risk of cancer. Responding to reports related to a particular brand, FSSAI said such cases are isolated and batch-specific, often resulting from inadvertent contamination or feed-related issues. They do not represent the entire egg supply chain. FSSAI urged consumers to rely on official advice and scientific evidence, reiterating that eggs prepared and used according to established standards remain a source of energy and a safe diet.

How useful are eggs for health?

Regarding the health benefits of eggs, the 2025 Framingham Offspring study revealed a significant increase. It was reported that people who eat five or more eggs a week have a lower risk of pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. The antioxidant proteins found in these eggs are the main reason for this.

(Disclaimer: The information given here is based on common beliefs and information. Daily Post News does not endorse the same.)

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