Is there any connection between eggs sold in India and cancer? Things to know

Gym rats love eggs as a complete protein source, which is also easily available. As compared to other forms of protein, it is also affordable for most people. However, a few recent videos and posts on social media claim that eggs increase cancer risk in humans, and they have been widely shared. What is the truth behind the allegation? 

What FSSAI says
Following widespread allegations that eggs cause cancer, the Food Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a statement addressing the concerns a while ago. The statement was also triggered by numerous online discussions and debates about the safety of eggs, sparked by reports and a viral video alleging that an egg sample from a popular brand tested positive for AOZ, a metabolite associated with nitrofuran antibiotics. According to FSSAI, such messages and claims are misleading and lack scientific evidence. FSSAI warns that it causes unnecessary fear among consumers, while categorically stating that the eggs available in markets across the country are safe for human consumption.

What is Nitrofuran?
Nitrofuran, a class of synthetic broad-spectrum antibiotics, are often considered a potential carcinogen. It is a prescription-only drug and is primarily used for urinary tract infections and in livestock. It is banned in the European Union and the US due to its risky side effects. FSSAI says that nitrofuran antibiotics have been banned at all stages of chicken farming and egg production in India.

Nitrofurans are not permitted anywhere in the production chain, including animal feed and the final product, under the Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Regulations, 2011. The authorities ensure that the producers comply with these guidelines through routine inspections, lab tests and surveillance. Besides, the FSSAI has prescribed a residue limit of 1.0 gram per kilogram for nitrofuran metabolites. Meanwhile, the officials clarified that this limit is not a health-based safety threshold but a technical reference value representing the lowest concentration that modern laboratory-based tests can detect. 

FSSAI officials stated that India’s regulatory framework is in line with global standards. FSSAI also cited that there is no scientific evidence to establish any noticeable link between trace-level dietary exposure to nitrofuran metabolites and cancer or any other dangerous diseases. Besides, the FSSAI urges consumers to rely on scientific data and official advisories rather than reach conclusions based on baseless claims that go viral on social media.