Key Update

The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Ludhiana, held a KFC outlet and its parent company liable in a food poisoning case. It ruled that the outlet served hazardous food and ordered ₹25,000 as compensation for deficiency in service.

Complaint Filed After Sudden Illness

Amarjot Singh, a resident of New Janta Nagar, Ludhiana, filed the case. He purchased a takeaway meal—hot wings, fries, and a cold drink—for ₹256 on November 11, 2023, from a KFC outlet at JMD Govardhan City Centre.

He alleged that the staff assured him the food was fresh. However, within 30 minutes of consumption, he developed severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and weakness. As his condition worsened, he sought immediate medical attention, where doctors identified symptoms of food poisoning. He also reported loss of work and mental distress.

Company Rejects Allegations

The KFC outlet and its parent company denied the allegations. They argued that no other complaints were received on that day despite serving over 200 customers. They also claimed that the complainant failed to provide conclusive laboratory reports or definitive medical evidence linking the food to the illness. In addition, they challenged the maintainability of the complaint before the Consumer Commission.

Commission Relies on Medical Timeline and Evidence

After hearing both sides, the Commission examined the medical records and timing of events. It was observed that the symptoms appeared shortly after consumption of the food, which strongly supported the complainant’s version. It also reiterated that food items fall under the category of “goods” under the Consumer Protection Act. Therefore, consumers have a legal right to safe and hazard-free food.

Liability Established, Compensation Awarded

Based on the evidence, the Commission concluded that the food consumed was the proximate cause of the illness. It held the outlet guilty of product liability and deficiency in service. Finally, it directed the company to pay ₹25,000 as compensation within 30 days. It also stated that failure to comply would attract 8% annual interest from the date of filing the complaint until realisation.

Source: The Tribune