More than 20 people were admitted to hospitals in Kadakkavoor, Thiruvananthapuram, following a suspected case of food poisoning after consuming food from a local fast-food outlet. The incident has prompted an investigation by the Health Department and Food Safety officials, who have launched a detailed inquiry to determine the exact cause of the illness and ensure public safety.
According to health authorities, those affected began experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhoea, and dehydration shortly after eating food from the establishment. The patients were rushed to nearby government and private hospitals, where they received prompt medical treatment. Officials reported that most of the patients are in stable condition and are recovering well, with no fatalities reported so far.
Following the incident, Food Safety Department officials conducted an immediate inspection of the fast-food outlet. During the inspection, they found that the establishment was operating without a valid food safety licence and the required approval from the local panchayat. Authorities also identified several lapses in hygiene and food handling practices, raising concerns about the safety standards maintained at the outlet.
The restaurant has been ordered to shut down with immediate effect, and food samples collected from the premises have been sent to a government laboratory for scientific analysis. The laboratory tests will help determine whether bacterial contamination, improper food storage, or other factors caused the suspected food poisoning.
Health officials stated that legal action will be taken if violations of food safety regulations are confirmed. They also announced that inspections of restaurants, hotels, and roadside eateries would be intensified across the district to ensure strict compliance with hygiene standards and licensing requirements.
The Health Department has urged food business operators to follow proper sanitation practices, maintain clean kitchens, and comply with all licensing norms to protect public health. Citizens have also been advised to consume food only from licensed establishments and report any suspected cases of food poisoning to health authorities immediately.
News as reported
