Kohima, June 30 (EMN): Amid fear after video clips went viral on social media that plastic eggs are being sold in the market in different parts of the country, a similar case has emerged in Kohima on Friday evening.
Three Naga youth, who jointly run a roadside snack stall near Old MLA Hostel, reportedly bought eggs which after being cooked appeared to be “abnormal” with a thin and soft outer shell. They are said to have purchased a carton of eggs from a grocery shop near Mao Market on Wednesday. The youth unsuspectingly boiled the eggs and fried them, preparing for a snack which is a regular demand. However, finding out that the outer layer of the eggs appeared different to what they were used to, they reportedly examined some of the eggs in other crates and found out that uncooked eggs had a rotten odour while the boiled eggs were odourless.
They reportedly returned the remaining egg from the carton to the retailer immediately but did not know whom or where to lodge a complaint. On Friday evening, when inquired about the matter, the persons manning the grocery store confirmed that a carton of eggs was returned by a customer but as they were not aware, the crates of eggs are now blended with the others.
When contacted, Joint Director of Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Kevichusa Medikhrü, who is in charge of the Food Safety Cell, said the matter has been brought to his notice adding that that food safety officers have already been detailed to collect samples of the alleged ‘plastic eggs.’ He informed that the samples would be tested in the State’s food testing laboratory, adding that only examination, they would be able to tell whether the eggs really contain traces of plastic/synthetic material or not.
Meanwhile, Nagaland Voluntary Consumers’ Organisation (NVCO), through its president Kezhokhoto Savi, has demanded a thorough investigation into the matter.
Speaking to Eastern Mirror, he said it is for the concerned authorities to test the products and find out whether they are plastic or real. He also expressed deep concern that should the product be found to contain plastic, the health of “our people” will be put at stake as eggs are a main item of food for many people, both old and young. He urged upon the responsible department to take the matter seriously and immediately act on it.
