Cameroon investigates potentially contaminated eggs and chicken
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Mimimefoinfos
Cameroon’s health ministry has opened an investigation after a study reported possible contamination of chicken and eggs with heavy metals, antibiotic residues and toxins. Samples were taken from farms in the Centre, Littoral and West, while Manaouda Malachie recommended products from reliable sources, according to Mimimefoinfos.
Cameroon’s health ministry has opened an investigation into the potential presence of heavy metals, antibiotic residues and toxins in eggs and chicken meat intended for consumption. Health Minister Manaouda Malachie announced the procedure in a statement signed on Friday 23 October, to assess the risks associated with these products.
The investigation is based on a study conducted by researchers from the University of Yaoundé I and the Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plant Studies. Their work covered six broiler farms and six laying-hen farms in the Centre, Littoral and West regions, with 48 chickens and 180 eggs combined into 18 composite samples.
Pending the results, Manaouda Malachie recommends that consumers prioritise products from reliable sources, identified by recognised public services and complying with hygiene, storage and handling rules. Poultry industry stakeholders have notably challenged the sample size in a country whose annual production is expected to reach nearly 102 million birds in 2026, reports Mimimefoinfos.
