Turkey launches probe after eggs exported to Taiwan said to contain carcinogens

Duvar English

The Turkish Agriculture and Forestry Ministry released a written statement after Taiwan’s Food and Drug Administration announced that they found traces of banned nitrofurans in 127 tons of eggs imported from Turkey.

The Turkish ministry said that the use of nitrofuran antibiotics, which are known to be carcinogenic, is prohibited in food production animals, including chicken. If authorities determine that these antibacterials have been used, regulations of Law No. 5996 on Veterinary Services, Plant Health, Food and Feed will be implemented.

The ministry also said that it has not yet been notified by Taiwan about the eggs that are the subject of “allegations reflected on the media,” but that they have already launched an investigation into the issue.

“If it is determined that the aforementioned substance has been used in the eggs’ production, the necessary procedures about the relevant people will be conducted,” the ministry said.

Taiwan’s semi-official wire service CNA reported on July 19 that Council of Agriculture Minister Chen Chi-chung said that they would ask for compensation from Turkey under the terms of contract.

The eggs were all destroyed and have not entered the local market, according to Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration.

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