Key Update

Food Safety Department shuts down Al Reem Kuzhimandi in Kathrikadavu after multiple customers report suspected food poisoning; food samples sent for laboratory analysis as the investigation continues.

Multiple Customers Report Illness

The Food Safety Department has suspended the licence of Al Reem Kuzhimandi in Kathrikadavu, Kochi, and ordered the restaurant’s immediate closure after nearly 50 customers reportedly developed symptoms of suspected food poisoning following the consumption of Mandi. Authorities initiated the action after receiving multiple complaints from customers who ate at the restaurant from Wednesday onwards.

Those affected experienced symptoms including fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain and general discomfort. Twelve people were admitted to the Indira Gandhi Co-operative Hospital in Kadavanthra, while several others sought treatment at hospitals across Ernakulam. Most of the affected individuals are students and young adults.

Food Safety Officials Launch Investigation

Following the complaints, food safety officials inspected the restaurant, suspended its licence and halted its operations. During the inspection, officials reportedly identified serious hygiene and food safety lapses. They recorded statements from patients receiving treatment and collected food samples for detailed laboratory analysis.

Authorities said the investigation is ongoing and that further regulatory and legal action will depend on the laboratory findings. They also stated that strict action will be taken if violations are confirmed.

Wider Food Safety Concerns

Al Reem Kuzhimandi serves traditional Yemeni Mandi and operates multiple outlets across Ernakulam. The incident has renewed concerns over food safety standards in restaurants and prompted authorities to intensify inspections of eateries across the district.

Officials have advised anyone who develops symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, fever or stomach pain after eating food from restaurants to seek medical attention promptly and report suspected foodborne illness to the Food Safety Department. The laboratory analysis is expected to determine the cause of the illnesses and guide further regulatory action.

Source: The Times of India