The Telangana government has taken a significant step to ensure food safety by imposing a one-year ban on the production, storage, and sale of raw egg-based mayonnaise. This decision comes after multiple cases of food poisoning were linked to mayonnaise in the state, including a tragic incident in Hyderabad where one person lost their life and 15 others fell ill after consuming contaminated momos.
The ban, which took effect on October 30, 2024, aims to prevent further outbreaks and safeguard public health. Authorities found that raw egg-based mayonnaise was the common culprit behind multiple food poisoning incidents, prompting the state Commissioner of Food Safety to issue the ban.
Mayonnaise, commonly referred to as mayo, is a rich and creamy sauce made by combining egg yolks with oil and seasoning with vinegar or lemon juice. This popular condiment is a staple in various snacks and dishes, including sandwiches, momos, shawarma, and Al Faham chicken. However, food safety officials have recently linked several contamination cases in the state to the use of egg-based mayonnaise, prompting concerns over its safety.
A tragic incident in Hyderabad's Banjara Hills area resulted in the death of a 31-year-old woman, Reshma Begum, and hospitalized her two daughters, aged 12 and 14, along with over 20 others. After consuming momos from a street vendor in Chintal Basti, Khairatabad, on October 25, the family experienced severe food poisoning symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Despite initial delays, they were rushed to the hospital on October 27, where Reshma Begum succumbed to her condition. Her daughters are currently receiving treatment. Further investigation revealed that the momos were sourced from the same supplier, linking multiple cases of food poisoning across various outlets in the city.
This incident prompted health authorities to conduct raids on shawarma and mandi outlets, citing concerns over food safety. The government has also pledged to alert the public to potential health risks associated with food products whenever reasonable cause for concern arises.
The tragic incident involving food poisoning from contaminated momos in Hyderabad's Banjara Hills area sparked swift action from local authorities, who launched a thorough investigation into the matter. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation's food safety department joined forces with Banjara Hills police to track down the street vendor responsible for selling the tainted snacks.
The investigation confirmed that an additional 20 residents from nearby areas sought medical attention and were hospitalized due to similar symptoms after eating at the street vendor.
An inspection by food safety officials revealed alarming lapses in the street vendor's operations. Not only was the vendor functioning without the requisite Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license, but the premises also failed to meet fundamental hygiene standards. Food was found to be prepared in unhygienic conditions, putting consumers at risk of severe health consequences.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)