A major food safety scare has gripped Karnataka following widespread rumors claiming that eggs sold under the popular brand 'Eggoz' are carcinogenic (cancer-causing). The state's Health Department has swiftly responded to the viral alert, initiating a large-scale investigation to either confirm or debunk these alarming allegations.
Ministerial Order and FSSAI Action
The matter was immediately brought to the attention of Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, who has directed the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to take decisive action.
- The Minister instructed the FSSAI to immediately collect samples of the 'Eggoz' brand eggs and send them to a certified laboratory for comprehensive testing.
- Following the directive, officials from the Food Safety and Quality Authority began the process of collecting samples across the state.
The Sampling Process: 14 Days to Truth
The initial phase of the investigation has focused on the GBA (Greater Bengaluru Area) jurisdiction.
- Initial Focus: FSSAI officials collected egg samples from 10 different locations within the GBA.
- Total Samples: Across the state, the Health Department has collected a significant total of over 150 egg samples, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.
- Bengaluru's Contribution: The state capital, Bengaluru, has been a major focus, with 50 samples collected from key metropolitan areas.
Key Sampling Locations in Bengaluru:
Samples in Bengaluru were collected from high-traffic and prominent areas, including:
- R R Nagar
- Kengeri
- BTM Layout
- Koramangala
- Yeshwanthpur
- Vasanthnagar
- Sanjayanagar
- Chamarajpet
- Hebbal
- K R Puram
- Mysore Road And over 50 other locations across the city.
The Verdict Awaits
The collected samples have been duly sent to the lab for detailed analysis. According to information provided by Dr. Suresh, Deputy Commissioner of the FSSAI Inspection Squad, the public can expect a definitive conclusion soon.
- Report Timeline: The FSSAI expects to receive the official lab report in 14 days. This report will unequivocally determine the authenticity and safety of the eggs.
- Future Action: The FSSAI has stated that initial sampling is limited to the 'Eggoz' brand within the GBA. However, depending on the results of this first report, they are prepared to expand the sample collection to other districts across the state.
- Wider Scope: Furthermore, the department is prepared to collect and send samples of other egg brands for testing if any suspicion arises during the current investigation.
The swift action taken by the Karnataka Health Department underscores the government's commitment to public safety, especially concerning widely consumed food items. The public is urged to await the official lab report before drawing conclusions about the alleged health risk.
