Norway recalls 600 tons of eggs over vitamin D overdose in feed

NORWAY – Norwegian consumers are facing a significant food safety scare as authorities recall over 600 tons of eggs due to excessive vitamin D levels in layers feed. 

The issue stems from a miscalculation at Felleskjøpet Agri, affecting major brands, including Nortura’s Eldorado and Coop’s Xtra Egg varieties.

Consumers are being advised to check their refrigerators and return any affected eggs for a full refund. 

While the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) has assured the public that there are no immediate health risks, concerns persist, especially as pigs also consumed the tainted feed. 

Reports indicate that 200 to 300 pigs had already been processed for food before the contamination was identified, raising further questions about food chain safety.

Amid the recall, medical facilities in Bergen have reported an uptick in emergency room visits, with worried consumers seeking reassurance over potential vitamin D poisoning. 

Symptoms of acute overdose can include stomach pain, poor appetite, headache, dizziness, fatigue, muscle weakness, and increased thirst and urination. 

As vitamin D is primarily contained in egg yolks, those who have consumed the affected products in large quantities are advised to remain vigilant for any symptoms and seek medical advice if necessary.

Ingunn Midttun Godal, CEO of Mattilsynet, emphasised the importance of prompt consumer action. “The most important thing now is that those who have any of the eggs in question in their refrigerator do not eat them. Those who have eaten a lot of eggs and experience symptoms of vitamin D poisoning should contact a doctor,” she told Norwegian newswire NTB.

Authorities, including the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH/FHI), are working to determine the exact risk levels associated with prolonged consumption of the recalled eggs. 

Preliminary calculations indicate that moderate consumption over the past three to four weeks is unlikely to cause acute health effects, but further assessments are ongoing.

The crisis extends beyond eggs, as contaminated feed also affected pigs in the northern and southern parts of Trøndelag. 

Public broadcaster Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK) reports suggest that between 300 and 500 pigs had to be culled as a precautionary measure. 

The incident highlights the vulnerabilities in food production chains and the critical importance of strict quality control measures.

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