School canteen shut down after food poisoning claims

A private school canteen was shut down by the authorities concerned yesterday following reports of food poisoning. Many websites and newspapers carried reports on Tuesday about students and teachers being admitted to the BDF Hospital and private clinics after suffering food poison.

According to reports, the victims fell ill after having the lunch served at the school canteen. The Education Ministry said in an official statement that it acknowledges the incident and a probe has been launched to verify the claims. After receiving complaints from many parents about food poisoning, the Education Ministry in coordination with Health Ministry has launched a probe into the incident, Curricula and Educational Supervision Acting Assistant Undersecretary and Private Education Director Ahlam Al Aamer said in a press release yesterday.

Ms. Al Aamer said a combined team was formed consisting of members from both ministries, in cooperation with Public Health Assistant Undersecretary Dr. Mariam Al Hajery. The official confirmed that the team followed up on the students who were admitted to hospitals.

“The team also visited the school on Tuesday, took samples of food that were served to students at the canteen and questioned the workers. Ms. Al Aamer added: “The directorate, in coordination with the school administration, decided to temporarily shut down the canteen while investigations are on. If claims are proved, legal procedures will be taken and the public will be informed about them.”