The Biz Reporter
Srinagar: A viral YouTube video alleging the presence of a banned antibiotic metabolite in Eggoz eggs has triggered widespread concern among consumers, prompting the brand and its founder to issue strong denials and detailed clarifications.
The controversy began after testing channel Trustified claimed that a blind lab analysis detected traces of AOZ — a metabolite of the banned antibiotic Nitrofuran — in an Eggoz egg sample. The video rapidly gained traction online, with some users linking the alleged findings to potential cancer risks. The allegations also cast doubt on Eggoz’s “100% antibiotic-free” promise, a key pillar of its positioning in India’s fragmented egg market.
Trustified reported AOZ levels of 0.73 per kg, a minimal trace but enough to raise questions about compliance and food safety standards. As the video circulated, calls for transparency grew louder.
Responding to the backlash, Eggoz released a statement on Instagram on 9 December, reassuring customers that its eggs are safe and compliant with all FSSAI regulations. The company said if trace residues are present, they may originate from external environmental factors such as groundwater contamination, not from antibiotic use. It also initiated fresh testing through an independent NABL-accredited lab.
On 11 December, Eggoz shared its lab reports on X, reiterating that its eggs are free from banned antibiotics, pesticides and drugs.
Founder Abhishek Negi later posted a detailed note on LinkedIn, criticising what he called “misinformation and fear-mongering.” He said the claims had caused needless panic, adding, “No antibiotics, no shortcuts, no jugaad — our processes stand strong.”
