What went wrong at this Gujarat wedding? 200+ guests fall sick as food samples go for testing

Dahod: A large-scale food poisoning scare at a wedding in Gujarat’s Dahod district has triggered an official investigation, with multiple food and water samples now sent for laboratory testing to determine the source of contamination.

Authorities confirmed that paneer curry, puri, mango juice, and water samples from both tanker and local supplies have been dispatched to the Food and Drug Laboratory in Vadodara after more than 200 guests reported illness.

Additional samples from the paneer and mango juice producers are also being analysed to identify the contamination source.

The incident occurred on Monday evening at a wedding in Abhlod village of Garbada taluka, where food prepared by caterer Dhanabhai Bharwad was served to nearly 1,000–1,200 people.

Officials have not yet confirmed which food item caused the outbreak.

According to the Chief District Health Officer (CDHO), 222 people reported symptoms such as: Diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain.

Out of those affected, 184 patients have already been discharged, while 34 remain hospitalised. Others with mild symptoms were treated at local health centres and primary hospitals.

Doctors noted that symptoms appeared soon after the meal, leading to a swift emergency response. Several patients were rushed to hospitals via ambulances and private vehicles.

Government and FSSAI step in

The Food and Drug Regulation Authority (FDCA) was alerted on Tuesday, and the FSSAI has now joined the on-ground investigation to assist with sample collection and analysis.

State Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said, “The incident occurred yesterday evening at a private event. Civil Hospital is treating the patients who were affected. I have sought a detailed report from the district administration. The report will be submitted in 1–2 days.”

Dr Nayan Joshi, Dahod epidemic officer, confirmed that authorities are awaiting lab results before determining responsibility and further action.

“FSSAI officials are currently at the site assisting state authorities with sample collection. The findings will be shared soon,” he said.

Officials added that administrative and legal steps will depend on the final laboratory findings and district-level report.

With IANS inputs