FSSAI Egg Safety Drive and Nitrofurans Explained
Why in the news
After a viral video claimed a well-known egg brand carried traces of a banned, possibly cancer-linked substance, the food regulator FSSAI began testing its samples.
About nitrofurans
- Synthetic antimicrobials used earlier in veterinary medicine.
- Compounds: nitrofurantoin, furazolidone, nitrofurazone, furaltadone.
- Banned in India, the European Union and other countries because of carcinogenic risk and toxicity.
Health concerns
- Possible neurological and gastrointestinal problems, hypersensitivity and long-term cancer risk.
- Residues in eggs breach food safety standards and weaken trust.
Exam angle
- Regulator: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).