Surat civic body checks 330 eateries after 5-year-old girl's suspected food poisoning death

The girl died on August 17 after she and four family members allegedly fell ill following a meal ordered from Sheetal Restaurant in Surat. Food poisoning is suspected to be the cause of death, but a post-mortem report is awaited.

Following the incident, the SMC sealed Sheetal Restaurant after officials found lapses in cleanliness and kitchen hygiene. Samples of ready-to-eat food and raw materials from the restaurant were collected for testing, and an improvement notice was issued.

What Happened

The civic body subsequently stepped up inspections across the city as part of its food safety drive. Officials inspected restaurants and other food establishments and took action against those found violating health and hygiene norms.

• Officials destroyed 1,641 kg of inedible and suspected food items during the drive.

• The SMC's special food safety drive will continue, with officials focusing on cleanliness, hygiene and compliance with food safety standards.

• The minister also spoke to the deceased girl's family over the phone, expressed his condolences and offered support.

Key Details

Food Safety Officer B R Brahmbhatt said separate teams were formed for each of Surat's nine municipal zones to carry out inspections. Of the 330 restaurants checked, 208 were issued notices for violations.

• He also spoke to doctors at Sadvichar Hospital about the condition of the four hospitalised family members and directed them to ensure proper treatment.

• Pansheriya reviewed the situation through a video conference with District Health Officer Dr Anil Patel and SMC's Dr Umrigar.

• Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya took note of the incident and directed officials to ensure all necessary medical and administrative measures.

Why It Matters

Seventeen establishments were found to be violating Schedule 4 requirements and provisions under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines. They were issued improvement notices and closed.

• They consulted a general practitioner on August 16 and were advised to be admitted to a hospital, but initially declined hospitalisation.

• All five members developed symptoms including vomiting the following morning.

What Reports Say

Coverage of the story so far points to:

• Continued reporting by India Today as more details emerge