Food poisoning incident involving special needs children: Kochi catering establishment shut down

Kochi: The catering establishment in Kochi was shut down by the Municipality following a food poisoning incident involving students of a special school on a recreational trip. The Food Safety Department has revoked the license of the establishment identified as Lillie's Kitchen in north Ernakulam. 

Meanwhile, the Food Safety Department has clarified that the boat used for the trip was not authorised to distribute food. A notice has been issued to the boat as well. The Food Safety Department informed that the boat lacked proper facilities for food storage and other related services, which led to the issuance of the notice. If the response is unsatisfactory, further action may be taken, it added. 

The group, consisting of 104 individuals, including students, teachers, parents and caretakers from Karunyatheeram Special School at Kattipara Panchayat in Kozhikode had come to Ernakulam for a recreational trip. 

It was earlier suspected that the food they consumed on the boat led to the food poisoning. After eating, they experienced stomach cramps followed by vomiting. As a result, 85 people, including the students and caretakers, sought treatment at the Kolenchery Medical College late on Wednesday night.

The license of Lillie's Kitchen was suspended due to the unhygienic conditions, including the manner in which food was being prepared.
Following the incident, the Food Safety Department is currently conducting inspections at various catering establishments in Kochi.