Plastic eggs among real eggs enter in Kohima market

Detection of suspected artificial eggs or plastic eggs in two places in Kohima town last evening created a sensation among the public and people afraid of buying eggs from the market, either raw and prepared for food. According to reports the artificial eggs were sold in a shop in Chandmari area and Old MLA Hostel Junction of Kohima town yesterday created quite astonish among the people and people gathered to see what an artificial egg. 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 in Chandmari area 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 and found that they smelt like thermocol when boiled. The detection of plastic egg, the white albumin will not mix up together quickly and fake eggs will make a hollow sound. If you place the egg on the flashlight, you will not be able to see the yolk and the shell will be clearer and the yolk will be deep yellow. 

By chance, you happen to boil it. The yolk will be too hard to break. They reportedly returned the remaining egg from the carton to the retailer immediately, but did not know whom or where to lodge a complaint. 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. The Joint Director of Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Kevichusa Medikhrü, who is in charge of the Food Safety Cell and was informed about the artificial eggs, 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. In a statement Savi 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.