Belgian authorities knew about mass contamination of eggs since June
Belgian authorities have known about the possible mass contamination of eggs since the beginning of June, but did not inform the public "so that the prosecutor's office could do its work," according to the country's food safety authority FASNK.
"It's a Belgian company that signalled ... that there might a problem with fipronil," FASNK spokeswoman Kathrien Stragier said Saturday, referring to a toxic insecticide banned from use in the production of food for human consumption.
Stragier said the authorities had decided not to inform the public "so that the prosecutor's office could do its work," adding that the authorities had acted in accordance with EU rules.
The contamination scandal entered the public domain earlier this week. On Friday, German supermarket chain Aldi and Swiss supermarket giant Migros announced the removal of all eggs from sale.
German authorities have said that other products containing eggs could also be affected.
Fipronil is a common ingredient in veterinary products for getting rid of fleas, lice and ticks in animals. It is banned from use on animals destined for human consumption. It can cause damage to the liver, thyroid glands and kidneys if consumed in large quantities.(dpa)
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Topic world Food safety
Food safety is at the heart of the food and beverage industry. It ensures that the food we eat every day is not only nutritious, but also free of harmful contaminants. From field to plate, the industry monitors and regulates every step of the process with strict quality controls, advanced testing methods and continuous research.
Topic world Food safety
Food safety is at the heart of the food and beverage industry. It ensures that the food we eat every day is not only nutritious, but also free of harmful contaminants. From field to plate, the industry monitors and regulates every step of the process with strict quality controls, advanced testing methods and continuous research.