Key Development

The Tamil Nadu Food Safety Department has confirmed that eggs, roasted chana, and masala products available in Coimbatore markets are safe for consumption, following extensive laboratory testing. Officials found no unsafe substances or adulterants in the samples collected.

Laboratory Tests Find No Contamination

The department tested nearly 100 samples across the three food categories. The results showed no traces of banned antibiotics such as nitrofurans in eggs or harmful adulterants in roasted chana and masala products. The findings confirm that these food items meet safety and quality standards, said Dr T. Anuradha, Designated Food Safety Officer for Coimbatore district.

Officials collected 30 egg samples, including chicken and quail eggs, from multiple locations and sent them to a laboratory in Bengaluru. All samples tested negative. Similarly, 12 randomly selected roasted chana samples also cleared safety tests.

Clarification on Social Media Claims

The department addressed recent social media claims linking egg consumption to cancer due to nitrofuran residues. Food safety authorities clarified that nitrofuran markers are used only for detection and do not pose health risks. Tests confirmed that banned substances were absent from the samples.

Checks Follow National Alerts and Local Complaints

The testing drive followed national alerts on roasted chana adulterated with Auramine O, a banned industrial dye, and complaints alleging excessive pesticide and chemical use in certain masala products. In response, officials collected 58 masala samples covering all major brands. Laboratory analysis found no violations.

Inspections Intensified Ahead of New Year

Alongside testing, food safety officials intensified inspections at restaurants and resorts, especially venues hosting New Year celebrations. Inspections at resorts in the Anaikatti Hills near the Tamil Nadu–Kerala border found that seven resorts violated food safety norms. Authorities issued notices and sought explanations from the establishments. Officials said routine testing and inspections will continue to ensure that food sold in the district remains safe, especially during periods of high consumption.

Source: The New Indian Express