Food Manifest 
Key Update
A case of suspected food poisoning has raised fresh concerns about shawarma safety after 15 students from a madrasa in Thekkupuram, near Poochakkal, Kasaragod, fell ill on Monday night. They reportedly consumed shawarma purchased from a nearby hotel during the Eid-e-Milad celebrations. Madrasa authorities reported that the students developed vomiting and abdominal pain soon after eating the food. They rushed the children to a local hospital, where doctors provided treatment. While four students remain under observation, the rest recovered and were discharged within 24 hours. All of them are now in stable condition.
The organisers had arranged food for the event, but when supplies ran short, they bought shawarma from an outside vendor to serve the remaining students. Symptoms appeared within an hour of consumption.
Authorities Renew Focus on Shawarma Hygiene Standards
This incident has reignited concerns about the safety of shawarma and the lack of enforcement of food safety regulations. Similar outbreaks in Kerala over recent years have linked shawarma to multiple foodborne illnesses and, in one case, a student’s death. The Food Safety Department had earlier issued strict guidelines for the preparation, handling, and sale of shawarma. These include regulations on meat storage, temperature control, and hygiene practices. However, officials have reduced active inspections, and many outlets reportedly fail to comply with safety standards.
Authorities are now expected to inspect the hotel involved and take appropriate action if they find violations. Food safety officers have urged vendors and event organisers to follow proper hygiene protocols, especially while handling meat-based fast food during festivals and public gatherings.
Source: Mathrubhumi
