The Nunatsiavut Government says elevated levels of oil compounds have been found in eggs and arctic char in the Postville and Nain areas.

Testing began in the area following a diesel spill near Postville in 2020 in Kaikopok Bay. Those results have shown elevated levels in both communities for 2021.

They say observed levels do not raise concern for short-term harm, however, some of what was detected may lead to an increased risk of cancer over the long term “if consumed in excessive quantities.”

As a result, Health Canada has put out estimates of a maximum monthly intake for three species of egg—saddlers, ducks, and pigeons—in both communities.

Those estimates are based on long term consumption at such levels over a lifetime, leaving the risk of cancer at one in 100,000.

The Nunatsiavut Government says while their work has focused on the 2020 spill, the contamination cannot be linked to a specific event and could be due to multiple sources.

They say information is being gathered in other Inuit communities, and residents should exercise caution. Results for eggs collected in 2022 will be available in the coming weeks.