The probe showed that meat from two thirds of animals grazing in 14 flood plains had been contaminated. In 2020 meat from culled animals in nature reserves was also been found to be too high in dioxins.

Dioxins, released during industrial processes, are highly toxic and can potentially damage the immune system, and cause fertility problems and cancer. Dioxins are stored in the body’s fatty tissue and collect there. ‘The daily intake of meat with a low level of dioxins can ultimately lead to higher levels in the body and cause health problems,’ the NVWA said.